GNOME 49 is set to be released on October 9, 2025, and it promises to enhance the Linux desktop experience with a host of new features and improvements. As users look forward to the upcoming Ubuntu 25.10 release, which will incorporate many of GNOME 49’s features, let’s explore the key changes you can expect.
Key Features of GNOME 49
Design Enhancements
GNOME 49 introduces a new accessibility menu on the login screen, making it easier for users to access assistive technologies. The lock screen now features a media controller widget, allowing users to control music or video playback directly. Additionally, there’s an option to display shutdown and restart options on the lock screen, although these will need to be enabled manually.
The Quick Settings menu has also been revamped, placing the Do Not Disturb toggle in a more intuitive location. Users with multi-monitor setups can enjoy separate brightness controls for each monitor.
New Default Applications
The update marks the transition from the old video player Totem to the new Showtime, which is built using the latest technologies, offering a modern interface with features like video chapters and subtitle support. The document viewer has also been updated, with Papers replacing Evince, providing improved performance and features.
File Manager Improvements
The file manager, Nautilus, sees significant updates that enhance usability. The redesigned search popover simplifies filtering search options, while file operations are clearer with new visual indicators. Hidden files are now displayed with a transparency effect for better visibility.
Additional Core App Updates
Several core applications will receive enhancements, including:
- Web (Epiphany): Improved ad blocking, bookmark editing, and support for hardware smartcards.
- Calendar: An adaptive UI that changes with window size and enhanced legibility features for event styling.
- Software: Notable performance improvements in data parsing, resulting in faster loading times.
Control Center Changes
The GNOME Control Center has introduced new toggles and options, including a donation button under the system information panel. Improvements for accessibility have also been made, making the Orca screenreader easier to access.
Major Mutter Updates
Mutter, the GNOME window manager, has received significant improvements, particularly in handling rendering and scaling on different resolutions. This update aims to enhance the overall experience with a focus on performance and responsiveness.
Disabling X11 Session Support
One of the more controversial changes is the discontinuation of X11/Xorg session support. Moving forward, GNOME Shell will exclusively operate on Wayland. This change pushes the desktop environment toward utilizing modern technologies but also poses a challenge for those still relying on X11.
Conclusion
GNOME 49 looks promising, aiming to refine the Linux desktop experience with practical updates and a more cohesive user interface. As it officially launches, GNOME 49 may prove to be a significant step forward in enhancing usability and modernizing the GNOME desktop environment.
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