The Zorin OS team has unveiled the beta version of Zorin OS 18, now available for public testing. This release is based on Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS (Noble Numbat) and is powered by the Linux kernel 6.14, promising improved hardware compatibility.
Key features of Zorin OS 18 include a refreshed default theme with a rounded floating panel and a new workspace indicator. The most significant addition is a powerful window tiling manager designed to enhance productivity. Additionally, a new built-in Web Apps tool allows users to install and run popular applications like Microsoft Office/365, Google Docs, and Adobe Photoshop directly from their desktop, integrating smoothly with existing web browsers.
One of the notable integrations in Zorin OS 18 is with Microsoft OneDrive, allowing users to access their files when logged into an MS 365 account. This feature aims to assist users transitioning from Windows, particularly those looking to migrate from Windows 10, which will lose support after October 14, 2025. The Zorin OS team indicates that the system will provide tailored guidance to help users find compatible versions of their favorite applications.
Although the beta version is now available for download from the official website, users are advised that it may contain bugs or incomplete features, making it unsuitable for production environments. The final version of Zorin OS 18 is expected to be released in the coming weeks.