The latest version of Ubuntu, 25.10, codenamed "Questing Quokka," has unveiled a new default desktop background and mascot artwork that are set to greet users upon installation or upgrade. This new wallpaper features the quokka mascot prominently against a purple gradient backdrop, continuing the distribution’s tradition of unique wallpapers for each release.
The design adheres to a thematic template established since Ubuntu 17.10, showcasing a line-art animal mascot composed of arcs, central in a purple gradient and surrounded by 3D angular shapes to add depth. A round topographic map, depicting a quirky maze path alongside the Ubuntu circle of friends logo, cleverly hints at the ‘questing’ theme.
Users can expect several versions of the wallpaper, including light and dimmed variants, as well as a dynamic option that adjusts based on the system’s light/dark mode settings. Additionally, Canonical’s design team has created four alternative designs that feature the topographical map motif across the entire wallpaper without the questing theme.
Currently, these wallpapers have not yet been included in Ubuntu 25.10 daily builds but are available in the ubuntu-wallpapers source code. They will also be used in other parts of the operating system, including the installer and documentation.
For those interested in trying the daily builds or snapshots, the new wallpapers will soon be accessible via a software update. Non-developers will be able to download these wallpapers from Google Drive shortly after their release.
For more updates, check out Ubuntu 25.10.