The GNOME Project has launched the beta version of the GNOME 50 desktop environment, introducing a slew of new features and enhancements to various applications and components. This release marks a significant update, especially with the inclusion of initial stable implementations of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and fractional scaling.
Key improvements in GNOME 50 beta include enhanced discrete GPU detection within the GNOME Shell, upgraded handling of keyboard layout sources in Quick Settings, and more effective screen time tracking. The window manager, Mutter, has also been upgraded to support HiDPI and monitor mode emulation for screencasts, alongside better frame scheduling and remote desktop functionality.
The GNOME Control Center has received several updates, such as a new text-size slider in the Accessibility panel and a "First day of week" setting in the Date & Time panel, which is also reflected in GNOME Calendar and Evolution. Other notable changes involve enhancements in battery charge handling and the ability to set keyboard mapping for single-user systems.
The Epiphany browser has improved features, including the option to clear service worker data and enhanced navigation capabilities for search engines. Additionally, usability improvements in the GDM have been implemented, streamlining authentication processes.
In terms of remote desktop capabilities, GNOME Remote Desktop now supports camera redirection, connection throttling, and HiDPI, along with Kerberos authentication in specific runtime modes. Preparations for future Vulkan Video Encode support have also been made.
Accessibility enhancements include a revamped preferences window for the Orca screen reader and improved global settings adjustments. Furthermore, capabilities in the Loupe image viewer and GNOME Sudoku have also been expanded to include new format support and sharing options, respectively.
For users interested in testing this beta version, the GNOME 50 release candidate is anticipated to be available for public testing in early March, with the official release scheduled for March 18, 2026. Users can download the GNOME OS install image for this pre-release version, but they should expect some unfinished features and potential bugs.
For more detailed changes, you can check the official release announcement page.