Ubuntu 25.04 is set to release with a variety of exciting features and improvements that might entice users to upgrade. Dubbed ‘Plucky Puffin’, the operating system is rich with new functionalities, user interface enhancements, and core changes.
Key Features in Ubuntu 25.04
This article focuses on some of the standout features users can expect from the release, which is currently in beta testing.
1. Ubuntu Installer Improvements
The newly refined Flutter-based OS installer offers enhanced clarity for users setting up dual-boot systems with Ubuntu and Windows. The updates aim to provide explicit guidance about existing operating systems on the device and streamline the installation process for existing Ubuntu installations.
2. Notification Grouping
With the introduction of GNOME 48, notifications are grouped together, making it easier for users to manage multiple alerts. Notifications from apps, CLI tools, and system processes combine into a single stack, helping to minimize visual clutter.
3. Digital Wellbeing Controls
A new Wellbeing panel provides tools to help users monitor and manage their screen time. Features include daily screen limits, screen time tracking, and reminders to take breaks, promoting healthier computing habits.
4. HDR Support
Ubuntu 25.04 offers HDR support, although it’s not enabled by default. Users need to toggle the feature in the display settings when an HDR-compatible monitor is connected. This addition allows supported applications to display properly, though there may be limitations regarding brightness controls.
5. General GNOME 48 Enhancements
GNOME 48 includes several enhancements, such as battery health preservation settings, improved window management, faster file manager performance, and better visuals for the on-screen keyboard.
6. New Document Viewer: Papers
The default document viewer has shifted from Evince to Papers, featuring modern technologies while retaining basic PDF handling capabilities. Power-users can still install Evince if they prefer its comprehensive features.
7. Visual Changes
The Yaru icon theme underwent adjustments to fix proportions of various icons, and there are new wallpapers reflecting the release mascot, the puffin.
8. BeaconDB Location Service
To replace Mozilla’s discontinued geolocation service, Ubuntu 25.04 will utilize the BeaconDB service for location-based features.
9. Updated NetworkManager
Shipped with NetworkManager 1.52, the update enhances IPv6 support and introduces new options for configuring network addresses.
10. Linux Kernel 6.14
The latest Linux kernel brings numerous changes, improving hardware support and performance, including enhanced frame rates for Windows games running through Wine.
Additional Smaller Changes
Several minor modifications include:
- Disabled default startup sound
- Enhanced user interface tweaks
- Updates to several core libraries and toolchains
Release and Upgrade Information
Ubuntu 25.04 is scheduled for a stable release on April 17, 2025. Users currently on Ubuntu 24.10 can upgrade directly to 25.04, while users on earlier versions need to upgrade through intermediate releases.
For those interested in testing prior to the official release, the Ubuntu 25.04 beta is available for download, though users should be aware of its larger file size, exceeding 6 GB.