Resources Beta Update: Introducing PowerPC Temp Monitoring and AMD NPU Statistics
A new beta version of Resources, the system monitor tool included with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, has been released, enhancing its capabilities with expanded statistics for AMD NPUs and temperature readings for PowerPC CPUs.
Users with AMD’s newer Ryzen chips—such as the 7040, 8040, and AI 300/400 series—can now access detailed metrics regarding utilization, power consumption, and performance for the onboard neural processing units (NPUs). This feature serves to confirm whether an AI workload is effectively utilizing the NPU or overloading the CPU.
Interestingly, PowerPC support has been added to the tool, which now accesses temperature data via the ibmpowernv hwmon driver. This functionality isn’t designed for older PowerPC models but instead targets newer POWER8 and subsequent processors. While PowerPC architecture is often overlooked in modern usage, companies like Raptor Computing and IBM continue to support and sell systems running this architecture.
The beta also promises improved detection for Steam games and Snap applications. Accessibility features have been enhanced, and the user interface now includes more space-efficient arrangements. For instance, device descriptions will only appear when multiple devices of the same type are present, streamlining the visual experience with a new sidebar toggle shortcut.
New options for memory metrics have also been introduced. Users can adjust memory calculation settings to suit their preferences, with options like “VmSize,” “Rss,” or “RssAnon.” Users interested in precise memory tracking can switch between these metrics to find the best fit for their needs.
As a part of the GNOME Incubator project, Resources is in the process of refinement, aiming to integrate into the GNOME Core apps lineup. Users looking to explore the Resources 51 beta can do so by setting up the GNOME Nightly Flatpak repository.
For more information, you can visit the Resources GitLab page to stay updated on developments.