Ubuntu 8.10 Intrepid Ibex

Ubuntu is set to release it’s latest version of GNU/Linux, Hardy Heron (Ubuntu 8.04), next month. As always, we die-hard Ubuntu fans are anxiously awaiting it’s arrival, eager to see which new Ubuntu upgrades, tweaks and enhancements made it into the final release. Ubuntu adheres loosely to a release cycle of 6 months, and just a few days ago revealed the name of Hardy Heron’s successor, the Intrepid Ibex (Ubuntu 8.10). As you may have noticed, Ubuntu’s version number corresponds to the year and month of it’s release, i.e. in the year 200( and in the fourth month, April (04).

Ubuntu will be focusing on mobile computing in version 8.10, making it easier for laptops to access the internet. I would imagine this would mean wider support for wireless cards. While Gutsy Gibbon was a vast improvement for many in terms of hardware recognition, myself included (for the first time my Broadcom wireless card was easily recognized and installed), there is still a way to before a more widespread adoption of Ubuntu can occur.

Mark Shuttleworth has also announced plans to improve desktop scalability in Ubuntu. An emphasis will be placed on improving the overall performance of the operating system, from high-end workstations to entry level laptops.

I’m definitely excited about the pace at which GNU/Linux seems to be maturing into a viable operating system for the masses. With innovative distros such as Ubuntu, PCLinuxOS, Mandriva, OpenSUSE and Fedora leading the way, GNU/Linux is slowly but surely coming into it’s own.

For more information on Intrepid Ibex, click here.