Ubuntu 20.04 LTS is here, the new version of Ubuntu extended support, and the one recommended for new installations until the next LTS comes out… but don't be in a hurry. It has just come out and offers five years of support, until April 2025, so we advise you to calm down.
In fact, we advise that if you can afford it, delay the installation until the release of Ubuntu 20.04.1 LTS in about six months, which is when Ubuntu 18.04 LTS users will receive the notice to update to this new version. It will be then when the system is well rounded and has polished all the errors that may have escaped from the development period. It will be then when 'Focal Fosa' honors the stability that one expects from an LTS version of Ubuntu.
Of course, if you can not or do not want to wait, we understand: Ubuntu 20.04 LTS comes with a tremendous pint and except for surprise, it should go well enough that the boldness is worth it. You can always give it a couple of days or a couple of weeks, but if you jump into the pool now, you shouldn't be in trouble.
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS: general news
As you know, there is not one Ubuntu, but several, distinguishable from each other by name and desktop environment; but they all share the same basis.
The main components of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS include the Linux 5.4 kernel (with WireGuard support ported from Linux 5.6 ), Mesa 20, PulseAudio 14.0 (stable version not yet available), as well as a host of updated applications, including Firefox 75, Thunderbird 68 or LibreOffice 6.4.
Another important change, in case you are one of the intrepid ones who have been updating their 32-bit system to date, is that what was given is over: "Support for i386 as a host architecture was removed in 19.10.". 32-bit support in Ubuntu 20.04 LTS is reduced to applications.
Another change, that the free software folks will not like very much, but that NVIDIA users will benefit from, especially those that give them to games, is that of the proprietary NVIDIA drivers by default (as long as it is checked). the “install third-party programs…” box) and, more importantly, if it is updated. The introduction of GameMode should not be overlooked either.
And one more that is worth noting: if you want to install Chromium, you can only do it as Snap.
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
Codenamed 'Focal Fossa', this is the most compelling Ubuntu release that has been released since the last LTS with Unity, and the reason is one: GNOME has reached a point of maturity that while not making you forget those features that made Unity great, it will dazzle you with others ... and with the best performance the desktop has ever had (in its current version, it is understood).
This is important because if you are one of those who keeps clinging to Ubuntu 16.04 LTS as a stray dog tick, the grace period runs out next year, so you better get used to the idea that the change is inevitable and that GNOME has a lot to offer ... And if it still does not convince you, it is not for alternatives.
But we start at the beginning, and that is that Ubuntu 20.04 LTS introduces new features in the same installation system, including a new design for booting the system, a new process to check the installation media and a new advanced partitioning option (do not confuse with the traditional advanced method "more options") that includes the option of using LVM with or without encryption and, experimentally and not recommended, the ZFS file system (more on this in the installation tutorial that we will publish in the next few days ).
Once on the desktop, the first thing you find is the start wizard, which does not change; with the bug on duty, Focal Fossa in the wallpaper; and with the desktop itself, GNOME 3.36 and all its novelties, to highlight the performance improvements, NVIDIA graphics support, the new dark mode, and the new application to manage extensions. Also, the new login screen, which is maintained with X.Org by default, but with the possibility of Wayland as an option.
Of course, the renewed Yaru theme, respectful of the original GNOME, but with a one hundred percent Ubuntu style will also catch your attention. the absence of direct access from Amazon; or the app store, which is passed to Snap, but in exchange it is the only Snap application that preinstalls Ubuntu 20.04 LTS.
Speaking of applications, there is good news, especially for those preparing the jump from the previous LTS: the aforementioned extensions application, one of energy statistics, and a task application with which to complement the calendar.
So far the highlights of this version. More information in the release notes of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS: official flavors
Although the highlight of this release is undoubtedly the official edition of Ubuntu with GNOME for all the changes it brings, quality alternatives are not lacking in the form of official Ubuntu flavors, about which you should know that their support is reduced at 3 years. However, the dock is still being updated and the key apps can be updated separately, so it's not a time-consuming drama if you want either.
On the other hand, we only collect general-purpose desktop editions. If you are looking for information about Ubuntu Studio, Ubuntu Kylin, or the editions for server, cloud, and others, check the previous link.
Kubuntu 20.04 LTS
Of the official flavors of the distribution, Kubuntu 20.04 LTS stands out, perhaps the only one that can shade the Canonical flagship.
Why it is explained by itself with the KDE Plasma desktop environment, the most balanced of GNU/Linux in terms of power, performance, and application ecosystem. Also, if you add KDE Plasma 5.18 LTS to the Ubuntu 20.04 LTS base, what you have is a win-win. It also has KDE Applications 19.12 in its latest maintenance version.
More information in the release notes of Kubuntu 20.04 LTS.
Xubuntu 20.04 LTS
Another official edition for those looking for a simple yet light environment is Xubuntu 20.04 LTS. Its big news, the latest major version of the desktop, Xfce 4.14, including the jump to GTK3 and related improvements like HiDPI support and updates on all components.
More information in the release notes of Xubuntu 20.04 LTS.
Ubuntu MATE 20.04 LTS
The same could be said of Ubuntu MATE 20.04 LTS, which as a great novelty is presented with MATE 1.24, whose improvements include HiDPI support, Wayland support, the adoption of Python 3 and many others at the component level that In fact, the developers of the distribution have dedicated themselves to complement with different add-ons.
More information in the release notes of Ubuntu MATE 20.04 LTS.
Ubuntu Budgie 20.04 LTS
Ubuntu Budgie 20.04 LTS is the flavor that presents the least news, corrections, and minor changes apart. The new version of the desktop, Budgie Desktop 10.5.1, is the highlight and it is a maintenance version in the wake of Solus, a project that has seen its development slow in recent years.
More information in the release notes of Ubuntu Budgie 20.04 LTS.
Lubuntu 20.04 LTS
Lubuntu 20.04 LTS, on the other hand, does come with a notable innovation under its arm: its first LTS version with LXQt as a desktop. Specifically, with the latest maintenance release of LXQt 0.14 and a handful of minor changes.
More information in the release notes of Lubuntu 20.04 LTS.
Download Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
Here are the links to the official download pages, where you will find the direct download links, by torrent and the checksums.
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Kubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Xubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Ubuntu MATE 20.04 LTS
- Ubuntu Budgie 20.04 LTS
- Lubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS Netboot
And more…
Indeed, Focal Fossa has more to offer, although not in an official way per se. There are two candidates for the official flavor that are also launching a new version and we have already talked about both here: Ubuntu Cinnamon and UbuntuDDE, that is, Ubuntu Deepin. Take them with caution.
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