A New Linux Desktop Environment for Ubuntu Users
Linux enthusiasts in North East India and beyond now have a fresh option for their desktop environment with the introduction of COSMIC, an open-source Rust-based desktop developed by System76. This new desktop environment, which recently saw its first stable release, is already generating excitement for its modern, configurable design that challenges established desktops like GNOME.
Installing COSMIC on Ubuntu: Risks and Rewards
Thanks to a new community-maintained PPA, Ubuntu users can now easily install COSMIC without switching to a new distribution. However, as this is an unofficial third-party repository, there are risks involved, particularly when it comes to upgrading critical system packages. This section will explore the pros and cons of installing COSMIC on Ubuntu.
- Pros:
- Easy installation process
- A chance to test the hype surrounding COSMIC
- A modern, configurable alternative to established desktops
- Cons:
- Upgrading critical system packages
- Breaking the value of an LTS release
- Potential security issues and package conflicts
Customizing and Using COSMIC on Ubuntu
After installing COSMIC on Ubuntu, users can begin exploring the customizable desktop environment. This section will highlight some key points to consider when using COSMIC on Ubuntu, including the accessibility of Ubuntu apps and files, missing first-party COSMIC apps, and quirks compared to running a vanilla instance on Pop!_OS.
Reverting to Stock Ubuntu
If users encounter issues or decide they would like to revert to the stock Ubuntu desktop, this section will provide guidance on how to do so using the command-line tool, ppa-purge.
Reflections and Future Prospects
The introduction of COSMIC on Ubuntu presents an exciting opportunity for Linux users in North East India and beyond. While there are risks involved with installing an unofficial third-party repository, the potential rewards of a modern, customizable desktop environment are appealing. As COSMIC continues to develop and mature, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and whether it can challenge established desktop environments like GNOME.