Elementary OS
{{lowercase title}}
{{short description|Desktop operating system based on Ubuntu}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}
{{Infobox OS
| name = elementary OS
| logo = Elementary OS logo.svg
| logo size = 300px
| screenshot = ElementaryOS8.0-Desktop.png
| caption = elementary OS 8.0 "Circe"
| developer = elementary, Inc. (Owner: Danielle Foré, Previously: Cassidy James Blaede)
| released = {{Start date and age|2011|03|31|df=yes}}
| language =
| ui = Pantheon{{Cite web|url=https://elementary.io/open-source|title=Open Source ⋅ elementary|publisher=elementary, Inc.|website=elementary.io|language=en|access-date=20 November 2019|archive-date=6 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106010017/https://elementary.io/open-source|url-status=live}}{{cite web|first=Cassidy|last=James|title=Hello, Luna Beta 1|url=http://elementaryos.org/journal/luna-beta-1-released|website=ElementaryOS.org|date=14 November 2012|access-date=20 February 2014|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130704073229/http://elementaryos.org/journal/luna-beta-1-released|archive-date=4 July 2013|url-status=dead}}
| license = GPLv3
| repo = {{url|https://github.com/elementary}}
| website = {{URL|https://elementary.io}}
| source_model = Open source
| latest release version = {{wikidata|property|preferred|reference|edit|Q1321517|P348|P548=Q2804309}}
| latest release date = {{start date and age|{{wikidata|qualifier|preferred|single|Q1321517|P348|P548=Q2804309|P577}}}}
| latest preview version =
| latest preview date =
| kernel_type = Monolithic (Linux kernel)
| supported_platforms = AMD64
| userland = GNU
| package_manager = APT (command-line frontend)
dpkg (backend)
Flatpak
| updatemodel = Long-term support
| working_state = Current
}}
Elementary OS (stylized as elementary OS) is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu LTS. It promotes itself as a "thoughtful, capable, and ethical" replacement to macOS and Windows and has a pay-what-you-want model.{{Cite news|url=https://fossbytes.com/most-beautiful-linux-distros/|title=9 Most Beautiful Linux Distros You Need To Use (2018 Edition)|last=Verma|first=Adarsh|date=6 January 2018|work=Fossbytes|access-date=6 August 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618152233/https://fossbytes.com/most-beautiful-linux-distros/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://elementary.io/|title=The fast, open, and privacy-respecting replacement for Windows and macOS ⋅ elementary OS|publisher=elementary, Inc.|website=elementary.io|language=en|access-date=19 February 2019|archive-date=24 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224043337/https://elementary.io/|url-status=live}} The operating system, the desktop environment (called Pantheon), and accompanying applications are developed and maintained by elementary, Inc.{{Cite web|url=https://elementary.io/brand|title=Brand ⋅ elementary|publisher=elementary, Inc.|website=elementary.io|language=en|access-date=6 August 2018|archive-date=7 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807032437/https://elementary.io/brand|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/elementary|title=elementary · GitHub|publisher=GitHub|website=github.com|language=en|access-date=20 November 2019|archive-date=22 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622231702/https://github.com/elementary|url-status=live}}
Design philosophy
The human interface guidelines of the elementary OS project focus on immediate usability with a gentle learning curve, rather than full-fledged customization.{{Cite web |url = http://elementary.io/docs/human-interface-guidelines |title = Human Interface Guidelines |website = elementary.io |publisher = elementary LLC |access-date = 16 April 2017 |quote = Users will accomplish tasks more quickly because you will have a straight-forward interface design that isn't confusing or difficult. |archive-date = 30 September 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180930015811/https://elementary.io/docs/human-interface-guidelines |url-status = live }}
The three core rules the developers set for themselves were "concision", "accessible configuration" and "minimal documentation".
Since its inception, elementary OS has received praise and criticism for its design. Wired claimed that it closely resembled macOS, visually and in user experience.{{Cite journal |url = https://www.wired.com/2013/11/elementaryos/ |title = Out in the Open: Say Hello to the Apple of Linux OSes |last = Finley |first = Klint |date = 25 November 2013 |journal = Wired |publisher = Condé Nast |access-date = 6 March 2017 |archive-date = 27 January 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170127064246/https://www.wired.com/2013/11/elementaryos/ |url-status = live }} The elementary developers say that while it may look like macOS at first, they have a lot of differences.{{Cite web|url=https://blog.elementary.io/busting-major-myths-around-elementary-os/|title=Busting Major Myths Around elementary OS|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=18 November 2016|website=elementary|access-date=22 November 2018|archive-date=26 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326190241/https://blog.elementary.io/busting-major-myths-around-elementary-os/|url-status=live}}
Pantheon's main shell is deeply integrated with other elementary OS applications, like Nimbus (a weather app), Web (the default web browser based on GNOME Web){{Cite web|last=Blaede|first=Cassidy James|date=2021-08-10|title=elementary OS 6 Odin Available Now|url=https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-6-odin-released/#app-updates|url-status=live|access-date=2021-08-10|website=blog.elementary.io|language=en-us|quote=The web browser in elementary OS 6 has been updated and renamed. Formerly known as Epiphany, Web is now distributed as a Flatpak to enable even faster updates to support the latest web technologies.|archive-date=10 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210810161007/https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-6-odin-released/#app-updates}} and Code (a simple text editor).{{Cite news|url=https://fossbytes.com/best-linux-distros-choosing-guide/|title=Top 10 Best Linux Distros For 2018 — Ultimate Distro Choosing Guide|last=Verma|first=Adarsh|date=4 March 2018|work=Fossbytes|access-date=6 August 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=7 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807002253/https://fossbytes.com/best-linux-distros-choosing-guide/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://medium.com/elementaryos/elementary-os-5-juno-is-here-471dfdedc7b3|title=elementary OS 5 Juno is Here|last=Blaede|first=Cassidy James|date=16 October 2018|website=elementary|access-date=17 October 2018|archive-date=7 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107174241/https://medium.com/elementaryos/elementary-os-5-juno-is-here-471dfdedc7b3|url-status=live}} Pantheon uses Gala as its window manager,{{cite web |url = https://old.elementary.io/journal/meet-gala-window-manager |title = Meet Gala: The Window Manager |last2 = Tate |first2 = Sam |date = 15 September 2012 |website = ElementaryOS.org |last3 = Beckmann |first3 = Tom |last4 = Davidoff |first4 = Sergey |first1 = Daniel |last1 = Foré |access-date = 11 August 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151126045335/https://old.elementary.io/journal/meet-gala-window-manager |archive-date = 26 November 2015 |df = dmy-all }} which is based on Mutter.
Pantheon desktop environment
The Pantheon desktop environment is built on top of the GNOME software base, i.e. GTK, GDK, Cairo, GLib, (including GObject and GIO), GVfs, Vala and Tracker. The desktop allows for multiple workspaces to organize the user's workflow.{{Cite web|url=https://elementary.io/docs/learning-the-basics#multitasking|title=Learning The Basics|website=elementary.io|language=en|access-date=17 December 2018|archive-date=18 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118194758/https://elementary.io/docs/learning-the-basics#multitasking|url-status=live}}
Pantheon applications that are designed and developed by elementary include:
- Pantheon Greeter: session manager based on LightDM
- Gala: window manager
- Wingpanel: top panel, similar in function to GNOME Shell's top panel
- Slingshot: application launcher located in WingPanel
- Switchboard: settings application (or control panel)
- Pantheon Mail: e-mail client written in Vala and based on WebKitGTK
- Calendar: desktop calendar
- Music: audio player
- Code: code-focused text editor, comparable to gedit or leafpad.{{Cite web|url=https://medium.com/elementaryos/scratch-is-now-code-2838e03134c7|title=Scratch is now elementary Code|last=Blaede|first=Cassidy James|date=2 January 2018|website=elementary|access-date=17 October 2018|archive-date=17 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181017022134/https://medium.com/elementaryos/scratch-is-now-code-2838e03134c7|url-status=live}}
- Terminal: terminal emulator
- Files (formerly called Marlin): file manager
- Installer: Installer built in partnership with System76.{{Cite web|url=https://medium.com/elementaryos/meet-the-upcoming-installer-a499341218f5|title=Meet the Upcoming Installer|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=23 February 2018|website=elementary OS|access-date=6 August 2018|archive-date=27 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180727031348/https://medium.com/elementaryos/meet-the-upcoming-installer-a499341218f5|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.fosslinux.com/3721/here-is-the-brand-new-pop_os-installer-that-will-feature-in-elementary-os-5-0-juno-too.htm|title=Here is the brand new Pop!_OS installer that may feature in elementary OS 5.0 Juno too|date=8 April 2018|work=FOSS Linux|access-date=6 August 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=7 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807003238/https://www.fosslinux.com/3721/here-is-the-brand-new-pop_os-installer-that-will-feature-in-elementary-os-5-0-juno-too.htm|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://blog.system76.com/post/170167029168/installer-elementary-and-popos-collaboration|title=Installer, elementary and Pop!_OS collaboration|website=System76 Blog|access-date=6 August 2018|archive-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805225240/http://blog.system76.com/post/170167029168/installer-elementary-and-popos-collaboration|url-status=live}}
Bryan Lunduke of Network World wrote that the Pantheon desktop environment, elementary OS's centerpiece, was among the best of 2016.{{cite web|url=https://www.networkworld.com/article/956312/elementary-os-04-review-and-interview-with-the-founder.html|title=elementary OS 0.4: Review and interview with the founder|date=13 October 2016|access-date=17 October 2016|last1=Lunduke|first1=Bryan|work=Network World|archive-date=26 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240426190200/https://www.networkworld.com/article/956312/elementary-os-04-review-and-interview-with-the-founder.html|url-status=live}}
Pantheon is also being released as an optional work-in-progress desktop environment in GeckoLinux. In addition to its x86 installer, Elementary offers various experimental builds that run on ARM devices such as the Pinebook Pro and Raspberry Pi 4.{{Cite web |last=Long |first=Moe |date=2022-03-02 |title=How to Install Elementary OS on Raspberry Pi |url=https://techuplife.com/how-to-install-elementary-os-on-raspberry-pi/ |access-date=2022-03-05 |website=Tech Up Your Life |language=en-US}}
Development
The elementary OS distribution started as a set of themes and applications designed for Ubuntu which later became its own Linux distribution.{{cite web|url=http://www.askvg.com/elementary-os-jupiter-awesome-linux-distribution-based-on-ubuntu/|title=Elementary OS "Jupiter": Awesome Linux Distribution Based on Ubuntu|last=Gupta|first=Vishal|date=19 April 2011|website=AskVG|access-date=11 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020021212/http://www.askvg.com/elementary-os-jupiter-awesome-linux-distribution-based-on-ubuntu/|archive-date=20 October 2013}} Being Ubuntu-based, it is compatible with its repositories and packages, and prior to version 0.4 "Loki", it used the Ubuntu software centre to handle software installation and uninstallation. However, after the release of Loki, Elementary bundled their own app store, AppCenter, whose user interface is designed to be intuitive for new users without consuming excessive resources.{{cite web|url=http://weblogit.net/2013/08/13/elementary-os-luna-eine-mac-os-x-aehnelnde-linux-distribution-86288/|title=Elementary OS 'Luna': Eine Mac OS X ähnelnde Linux-Distribution|last=Nemec|first=Tom|date=13 August 2013|website=Weblogit|language=de|access-date=20 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140209104211/http://www.weblogit.net/2013/08/13/elementary-os-luna-eine-mac-os-x-aehnelnde-linux-distribution-86288/|archive-date=9 February 2014|url-status=dead}}
elementary OS is based on Ubuntu's Long Term Support releases, which Ubuntu's developers actively maintain for bugs and security for years even as development continues on the next release.{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/05/ubuntu-16-04-proves-even-an-lts-release-can-live-at-linuxs-bleeding-edge/ |title=Ubuntu 16.04 proves even an LTS release can live at Linux's bleeding edge |work=Ars Technica |publisher=Condé Nast |first=Scott |last=Gilbertson |date=10 May 2016 |access-date=14 June 2017 |archive-date=19 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419025717/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/05/ubuntu-16-04-proves-even-an-lts-release-can-live-at-linuxs-bleeding-edge/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://news.softpedia.com/news/elementary-os-0-4-loki-officially-released-it-s-based-on-ubuntu-16-04-lts-508147.shtml|title=elementary OS 0.4 "Loki" Officially Released, It's Based on Ubuntu 16.04 LTS|last=Nestor|first=Marius|date=9 September 2016|website=Softpedia|publisher=SoftNews|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-date=14 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114092912/http://news.softpedia.com/news/elementary-os-0-4-loki-officially-released-it-s-based-on-ubuntu-16-04-lts-508147.shtml|url-status=live}}
elementary OS founder Danielle Foré has said that the project is not designed to compete with existing open source projects, but to expand their reach. It also seeks to create open source jobs through developer "bounties" on specific tasks. As of the 2016 Loki release, {{US$}}17,500 in bounties had been raised.{{cite web|url=https://www.linux.com/learn/elementary-os-loki-has-arrived|title=Elementary OS Loki Has Arrived|date=9 September 2016|access-date=25 September 2016|last1=Wallen|first1=Jack|work=Linux.com|archive-date=26 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170126113731/https://www.linux.com/learn/elementary-os-loki-has-arrived|url-status=live}}
=0.1 Jupiter=
The first stable version of elementary OS was Jupiter, published on 31 March 2011{{cite web|url=http://blog.elementary.io/post/126786393856/how-old-is-elementarys-project-on-which-date-was|title=How old is Elementary's project?|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=15 August 2015|work=Elementary blog|access-date=2 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150902140146/http://blog.elementary.io/post/126786393856/how-old-is-elementarys-project-on-which-date-was|archive-date=2 September 2015|url-status=dead}} and based on Ubuntu 10.10.{{cite web|url=http://www.muylinux.com/2012/10/19/elementary-os-jupiter-deja-de-estar-disponible/|title=Elementary OS "Jupiter" deja de estar disponible|last=Pastor Nóbrega|first=Javier|date=19 October 2012|website=MuyLinux|language=es|access-date=20 February 2014|archive-date=25 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121125112130/http://www.muylinux.com/2012/10/19/elementary-os-jupiter-deja-de-estar-disponible/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.webupd8.org/2012/10/elementary-os-jupiter-no-longer.html|title=Elementary OS Jupiter no longer available for download, makes room for Luna|last=Andrei|first=Alin|date=12 October 2012|publisher=Web Upd8|access-date=20 February 2014|archive-date=26 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130126210516/http://www.webupd8.org/2012/10/elementary-os-jupiter-no-longer.html|url-status=live}}
=0.2 Luna=
In November 2012, the first beta version of elementary OS code-named Luna was released, which uses Ubuntu 12.04 LTS as a base.{{cite web|url=http://www.webupd8.org/2012/11/elementary-os-luna-beta-1-available-for.html|title=Elementary OS Luna beta 1 available for download|last=Andrei|first=Alin|date=14 November 2012|website=Web Upd8|access-date=20 February 2014|archive-date=27 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130127115316/http://www.webupd8.org/2012/11/elementary-os-luna-beta-1-available-for.html|url-status=live}}
The second beta version of Luna was released on 6 May 2013, carrying more than 300 bug fixes and several changes, such as improved support for multiple localizations, multiple display support and updated applications.{{cite web|url=https://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=news_item&px=MTM2NjA|title=Elementary OS Luna Beta 2 Released|last=Larabel|first=Michael|date=6 May 2013|publisher=Phoronix|access-date=11 August 2013|archive-date=6 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606210419/http://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=news_item&px=MTM2NjA|url-status=live}} On 7 August 2013, a countdown clock appeared on the official website with a countdown to 10 August 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.muktware.com/5828/mysterious-countdown-appears-elementary-os-website|title=Mysterious countdown appears on elementary OS website|last=Jacobs|first=Robin|date=9 August 2013|website=Muktware|access-date=11 August 2013|archive-date=10 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130810214318/http://www.muktware.com/5828/mysterious-countdown-appears-elementary-os-website|url-status=live}} The second stable version of elementary OS, Luna, was released that same day, along with a complete overhaul and redesign of the elementary OS website.{{cite web|url=http://www.muktware.com/5831/elementary-os-luna-says-hello-world|title=Elementary OS Luna says Hello World|last=Jacobs|first=Robin|date=11 August 2013|website=Muktware|access-date=11 August 2013|archive-date=12 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130812233904/http://www.muktware.com/5831/elementary-os-luna-says-hello-world|url-status=live}}
=0.3 Freya=
The name of the third stable version of elementary OS, Isis, was proposed in August 2013 by Danielle Foré, the project leader.{{cite web|url=https://lists.launchpad.net/elementary-dev-community/msg02577.html|title=Luna+1's Name and Some Other Stuff|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=16 August 2013|work=elementary-dev-community mailing list|access-date=14 September 2013|archive-date=29 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029200048/https://lists.launchpad.net/elementary-dev-community/msg02577.html|url-status=live}} It was later changed to Freya to avoid association with the terrorist group ISIS.{{cite web|url=http://elementaryos.org/journal/elementary-os-isis-is-now-freya|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140624034633/http://elementaryos.org/journal/elementary-os-isis-is-now-freya|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 June 2014|title=Elementary OS Isis is now Freya|last=James|first=Cassidy|date=22 June 2014|website=ElementaryOS.org|access-date=1 October 2014}} It is based on Ubuntu 14.04 LTS, which was released in April 2014. The first beta of Freya was released on 11 August 2014.{{cite web|url=http://elementaryos.org/journal/freya-beta-1-available-for-developers-testers|title=Freya Beta 1 Available for Developers & Testers|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=11 August 2014|website=ElementaryOS.org|access-date=12 August 2014|archive-date=12 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812223759/http://elementaryos.org/journal/freya-beta-1-available-for-developers-testers|url-status=live}} The second beta of Freya was released on 8 February 2015.{{cite web|url=http://blog.elementaryos.org/post/110481021076/freya-beta-2-is-here|title=Freya Beta 2 is here!|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=8 February 2015|website=ElementaryOS.org|access-date=9 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150210020108/http://blog.elementaryos.org/post/110481021076/freya-beta-2-is-here|archive-date=10 February 2015|url-status=dead}} The final version was released on 11 April 2015, after a countdown clock appeared on the website eight days earlier.{{Cite news|url=https://linux.softpedia.com/blog/Countdown-on-elementary-OS-Website-Suggests-a-New-Freya-Release-477583.shtml|title=Countdown on elementary OS Website Suggests a New Freya Release|last=Nestor|first=Marius|work=softpedia|access-date=6 August 2018|language=en-us|archive-date=7 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807002212/https://linux.softpedia.com/blog/Countdown-on-elementary-OS-Website-Suggests-a-New-Freya-Release-477583.shtml|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://ubuntuhandbook.org/index.php/2015/04/elementary-os-freya-download/|title=Elementary OS Freya (Stable) Available for Download {{!}} UbuntuHandbook|website=ubuntuhandbook.org|language=en-US|access-date=6 August 2018|archive-date=7 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807001803/http://ubuntuhandbook.org/index.php/2015/04/elementary-os-freya-download/|url-status=live}}
Freya was downloaded 1.2 million times. In line with Elementary's intent to expand the reach of open source software, 73 percent of Freya downloads were from closed source operating systems.
In 2015, the elementary OS developers changed the download page to default to a monetary amount before providing a direct HTTP download for the current stable release. Despite the fact that the user could specify any amount, or no amount at all, it sparked controversy about how such practices are typically not perceived as being in alignment with FOSS distribution philosophies.{{Cite web|title = Online Community Goes Nuts After elementary OS Devs Say People Should Pay|url = http://news.softpedia.com/news/Online-Community-Goes-Nuts-After-elementary-OS-Devs-Say-People-Should-Pay-473225.shtml|website = softpedia|date = 16 February 2015|access-date = 8 January 2016|archive-date = 31 January 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160131034308/http://news.softpedia.com/news/Online-Community-Goes-Nuts-After-elementary-OS-Devs-Say-People-Should-Pay-473225.shtml|url-status = live}}{{Cite web|title = Should you pay for Elementary OS?|url = http://www.infoworld.com/article/2883114/should-you-pay-for-elementary-os.html|website = InfoWorld|access-date = 8 January 2016|date = 11 February 2015|archive-date = 8 January 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160108155126/http://www.infoworld.com/article/2883114/should-you-pay-for-elementary-os.html|url-status = live}}{{Cite web|title = Payments|url = http://blog.elementary.io/post/110645528530/payments|website = blog.elementary.io|access-date = 8 January 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160126040419/http://blog.elementary.io/post/110645528530/payments|archive-date = 26 January 2016|url-status = dead}} The elementary OS team has defended the action stating that "Around 99.875% of those users download without paying", and that it is needed to ensure the continued development of the distribution.
In a review of all Linux distributions, Linux.com gave elementary OS their "best-looking distro" superlative in early 2016. The reviewer noted its developers' design background, their influence from Mac OS X, and their philosophy of prioritizing strict design rules and applications that follow these rules.{{cite web |url=https://www.linux.com/news/best-linux-distros-2016 |title=The Best Linux Distros of 2016 |website=Linux.com |publisher=The Linux Foundation |date=12 January 2016 |first=Swapnil |last=Bhartiya |access-date=15 October 2016 |archive-date=3 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803235558/https://www.linux.com/news/best-linux-distros-2016/ |url-status=live }}
=0.4 Loki=
elementary OS 0.4, known by its codename "Loki", was released on 9 September 2016. Loki was built atop the Ubuntu "long-term support" version released earlier in the year{{efn|Ubuntu 16.04 LTS, Xenial Xerus, was supported until 2021.}} and its updated kernel (4.4). Loki revamped the operating system's notifications and added multiple new pieces of standard software. It let users set notification display preferences. Updated notification menu bar indicators began to display information from the notification—such as the title of an email—rather than a general alert. The operating system also added a system-wide integration for online accounts for Last.fm and FastMail, with other services in development.
Loki replaced Freya's Midori web browser with GNOME Web, a WebKit2-based browser with better performance. After the Yorba Foundation which developed the Geary email client was dissolved, elementary OS forked Geary as "Mail" and added new visual and integration features. In a new calendar feature, users could describe events in natural language, which the calendar program interprets and places into the proper time and description fields when creating events.
elementary OS also created its own app store that simplifies the process of installing and updating applications. Project founder Danielle Foré called the AppCenter the biggest feature in the Loki release, and noted its speed improvement over other installation methods and internal development benefits for departing from Ubuntu's upgrade tools. Loki developers received $9,000 in bounties during its development—nearly half of the project's total bounty fundraising.
Jack Wallen of Linux.com praised Loki as being among the most elegant and best-designed Linux desktops. He found the web browser and app store changes to be significant improvements, and the email client revamp "a much-needed breath of fresh air" in a stagnating field. Overall, Wallen surmised that existing users would appreciate Loki's polish and new users would find it to be a perfect introduction to the operating system. Bryan Lunduke of Network World lauded Loki's performance, usability, polish, and easy installation, but considered it a better fit for new Linux users than for those already established.
The elementary OS team received a large donation from an anonymous donor in early August 2018. The donation has allowed the development team to hire an additional full-time employee and expand long-term viability for the project.{{cite web|url=https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2018/08/elementary-os-hires-cassidy-james|title=Mystery Donation Lets Elementary Hire Full-Time Staff|date=4 August 2018|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805142736/https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2018/08/elementary-os-hires-cassidy-james|url-status=live}}
=5.0 Juno=
File:Scrivania di elementary OS 5.0 Juno.png
elementary OS 5.0, known by its codename "Juno", was released on 16 October 2018. The update brings changes to the AppCenter pay-what-you-want system, as well a Night Light feature for changing the screen color at night, and adjustable window tiling as well as several other new features for the Pantheon desktop and elementary OS applications. The update also contained a new Housekeeping feature in settings, which removes trashed, as well as temporary, files after a given time interval.{{Cite news|url=https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-and-why-you-should-enable-housekeeping-in-elementary-os-juno/|title=How--and why--you should enable Housekeeping in elementary OS Juno|work=TechRepublic|access-date=23 November 2018|language=en|archive-date=30 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730230036/https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-and-why-you-should-enable-housekeeping-in-elementary-os-juno/|url-status=live}}
Jack Wallen, writing for TechRepublic, praised the update for bringing subtle changes and improving upon Loki.{{Cite news|url=https://www.techrepublic.com/article/elementary-os-juno-has-arrived-and-it-is-spectacularly-subtle/|title=Elementary OS Juno has arrived, and it is spectacularly subtle|work=TechRepublic|access-date=23 November 2018|language=en|archive-date=23 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181123113537/https://www.techrepublic.com/article/elementary-os-juno-has-arrived-and-it-is-spectacularly-subtle/|url-status=live}} Jason Evangelho, writing for Forbes, called the update elegant, stating that "elementary OS 5.0 Juno, thus far, does just work. And looks absolutely beautiful doing it."{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonevangelho/2018/10/16/elementary-os-5-0-juno-just-released-here-are-the-best-new-features/#5eb7f00e5516|title=elementary OS 5.0 Juno Just Released -- Here Are The Best New Features|last=Evangelho|first=Jason|work=Forbes|access-date=23 November 2018|language=en|archive-date=23 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181123070902/https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonevangelho/2018/10/16/elementary-os-5-0-juno-just-released-here-are-the-best-new-features/#5eb7f00e5516|url-status=live}} In a review from LinuxInsider, the reviewer called the operating system a "very solid Linux distro" despite criticizing it for lacking power-user features.{{Cite web|url=https://www.linuxinsider.com/story/85733.html|title=Pantheon Desktop Makes Linux Elementary {{!}} Reviews {{!}} LinuxInsider|website=www.linuxinsider.com|date=12 December 2018 |access-date=17 December 2018|archive-date=17 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181217202515/https://www.linuxinsider.com/story/85733.html|url-status=live}}
As of November 2018, Juno has been downloaded over 160,000 times, with 1% of people choosing to pay (with $10 being the most common amount, followed closely by $1){{Cite web|url=https://medium.com/elementaryos/updates-for-november-8c5d44ca723|title=Updates for November|last=Foré|first=Danielle|date=30 November 2018|website=elementary|access-date=16 December 2018|archive-date=30 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730233021/https://medium.com/elementaryos/updates-for-november-8c5d44ca723|url-status=live}}
As part of an October 2019 update, elementary OS started supporting Flatpak out of the box,{{cite web|title=elementary OS Now Has Support for Flatpak Apps|date=3 November 2019|url=https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2019/11/elementary-os-flatpak-support|access-date=21 May 2020|archive-date=30 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730231217/https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2019/11/elementary-os-flatpak-support|url-status=live}} thereby making it easier to install any of the wide array of Flatpak apps that are available.
=5.1 Hera=
File:Elementary OS 5.1 Hera.png
Development of elementary OS 5.1 “Hera” began after the release of elementary OS 5.0 “Juno” and focused on refining the user experience, improving performance, and introducing new features.
The development team started by addressing various bugs and stability issues present in the previous version. They put great emphasis on enhancing system performance and optimizing resource usage to ensure a smoother overall experience. One of the key goals of “Hera” was to make elementary OS even more responsive and efficient.
In terms of visual improvements, the team refined the existing desktop environment, Pantheon, and its accompanying applications. The design language was further polished, resulting in a more polished and consistent look throughout the system. Several system icons and styles were updated, giving “Hera” a more refined appearance.
The Files (formerly known as Nautilus) file manager received attention during development, with improvements in performance and a cleaner interface. Additionally, the team introduced a revamped Applications menu, making it easier to navigate and find installed software.
=6.0 Odin=
File:Elementary odin.pngelementary OS 6.0,{{Cite web |title=elementary OS 6 Updates for October, 2021 |url=https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-6-odin-updates-october-2021/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=blog.elementary.io |date=30 October 2021 |language=en-us}} released on 10 August 2021 under the codename "Odin",{{Cite web |last=Sneddon |first=Joey |date=2021-08-10 |title=elementary OS 6 Released, This is What's New |url=https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2021/08/elementary-os-6-odin-release |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=OMG! Ubuntu! |language=en-GB}} builds upon 5.1 Hera by including new features like a dark style and the ability to change the accent color, Improved notification handling and a new Notification Center, Online accounts for things like IMAP and CalDAV for email and calendar respectively, Multi-touch Gestures for app switching and multiple desktops, an all new installer, a firmware updates app and more.{{Cite web |last=Das |first=Ankush |date=2021-08-10 |title=Top 11 New Features in elementary OS 6 Linux Release |url=https://news.itsfoss.com/elementary-os-6-features/ |access-date=2022-03-12 |website=It's FOSS News |language=en-US}}
=6.1 Jólnir=
elementary 6.1, code name "Jólnir", was released on 20 December 2021.
==Change of ownership==
When 6.0 and 6.1 were released, the pay model wasn't bringing in enough revenue. After legal challenges between the two co-founders, Cassidy James Blaede decided to sell 100% of their shares to Danielle Foré.{{Cite web |last=Arindam |date=2022-04-03 |title=Is this the End of road for elementary OS? [Opinion and Analysis] |url=https://www.debugpoint.com/end-of-elementary-os/ |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=DebugPoint.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Christine |date=2022-04-06 |title=Elementary OS Faces Uncertain Future After Co-Founder Split |url=https://fossforce.com/2022/04/elementary-os-faces-uncertain-future-after-co-founder-split/ |access-date=2022-08-05 |website=FOSS Force |language=en-US}} The CFO, Liz Kecso, also left the company while these issues were happening.
=7.0 Horus=
File:Elementary OS 7.0 Horus.jpg
elementary OS 7.0 "Horus" was released on 31 January 2023.{{Cite web |title=elementary OS 7 Available Now |url=https://blog.elementary.io/os-7-available-now/ |access-date=2023-01-31 |website=blog.elementary.io |date=31 January 2023 |language=en-us}} The update focuses on the AppCenter, new features and settings, and the developer platform. This version is based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS.
= 8.0 Circe =
elementary OS 8.0 "Circe" was released on 26 November 2024. The update introduced improved multitasking, default Flathub integration, and user interface changes focused on inclusive design. It is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.{{Cite web |last=Sneddon |first=Joey |date=2024-11-26 |title=elementary OS 8 Released, This is What's New |url=https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2024/11/elementary-os-8-released-this-is-whats-new |access-date=2024-11-30 |website=OMG! Ubuntu |language=en-GB}}
=Summary table=
{{Version|l|show=111101}}
Notes
{{Notelist}}
References
{{Reflist|30em}}
=Apps=
{{Reflist|group=apps|refs=
| url = https://github.com/elementary/greeter
| title = Pantheon Login Screen
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 September 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190903144242/https://github.com/elementary/greeter
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/gala
| title = Pantheon's Window Manager
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 26 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190226011018/https://github.com/elementary/gala
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/wingpanel
| title = Wingpanel
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172405/https://github.com/elementary/wingpanel
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/applications-menu
| title = Slingshot
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172421/https://github.com/elementary/applications-menu
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/switchboard
| title = Switchboard
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172423/https://github.com/elementary/switchboard
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/mail
| title = Mail
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 9 January 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190109003151/https://github.com/elementary/mail
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/calendar
| title = Calendar
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 1 March 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190301012910/https://github.com/elementary/calendar
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/music
| title = Music
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172455/https://github.com/elementary/music
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/terminal
| title = Pantheon Terminal
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172429/https://github.com/elementary/terminal
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/files
| title = Files
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 9 January 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190109003155/https://github.com/elementary/files
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/code
| title = Code
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 3 February 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190203172459/https://github.com/elementary/code
| url-status = live
}}
| url = https://github.com/elementary/installer
| title = Installer
| publisher = GitHub.com
| access-date = 19 February 2019
| archive-date = 10 January 2019
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190110003656/https://github.com/elementary/installer
| url-status = live
}}
}}
External links
{{Commonscat|Elementary OS|lcfirst=yes}}
- {{Official website}}
- {{DistroWatch|Elementary|NAME=elementary OS}}
- [http://osarchive.sda1.eu/elementary-os elementary OS archive and downloads]
{{Ubuntu}}
{{Linux distributions}}
Category:Operating system distributions bootable from read-only media
Category:Software that uses Clutter (software)
Category:Software that uses GTK
Category:Debian-based distributions