Elementary OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu that features the custom-developed Pantheon desktop environment. Itโs designed for non-technical users and is a great introduction to the world of Linux, but it also caters to veteran users.
Elementary OS is 100% free to use with an optional “pay-what-you-want model.” In terms of UI and usability, it’s very similar to macOS and is used by millions of beauty lovers around the world.
What’s New in Elementary OS 6
Today, the elementary OS teamย releasedย version 6, codenamed “Odin,” of its operating system, which comes with Kernel version 5.11. Without a doubt, Elementary OS 6 is one of theย most anticipated Linux distributions of 2021. It brings several remarkable improvements to the user experience and the core system.
elementary OS 6 Dark Theme
Elementary OS 6 introduces a dark theme. Users can choose the dark theme either from the Welcome Screen or from the System Settings.
It also offers ten different accent colors, which will decide the major color component in the official theme. You can also choose an automatic accent from the wallpaper.
Flatpak Apps
In Elementary OS 6, all AppCenter apps are now packaged and distributed as Flatpak. For those unfamiliar with Flatpak, it is a modern container format that keeps apps isolated from each other and sensitive data.
You can also control the permissions granted for each app from the application view in System Settings. These protections are in place for apps installed from AppCenter and apply to all apps installed via the built-in side load utility.
New Multi-touch Support in Elementary OS 6
One of the most interesting new features in Elementary OS 6 for touchscreen and touchpad users is the new multi-touch support throughout.
A three-finger swipe up smoothly opens the multitasking view, exposing open apps and workspaces. A three-finger swipe left or right smoothly switches between dynamic workspaces, making jumping between tasks even faster.
In addition to the desktop multi-touch gestures, many elementary OS native apps support multi-touch actions.
Redesigned Notification System
Elementary OS 6 brings a redesign and under-the-hood rewrite with richer, more capable notifications than ever. Notification bubbles now feature badge capability, enabling apps to send richer information, like visual status indicators.
Apps can also now send actions along with notifications, which are displayed as buttons right within the notification bubble. It’s easier than ever to be informed by apps and take quick actions without ever needing to open the app.
New Tasks App
The brand new Tasks app debuts in Elementary OS 6, helping you tackle your To-Do list, whether it’s stored on your device or synchronized with an online account.
Built-in Firmware Updater
The new release comes with a built-in firmware updater powered by the Linux vendor firmware service. It supports devices from hardware manufacturers such as Star Labs, Dell, Lenovo, HP, Intel, Logitech, Wacom, 8bitdo, and more.
Online Accounts
This new release comes with support for adding Online Accounts from System Settings. Moreover, it now allows you to add both mail and calendar accounts that support the IMAP and CalDav standards.
Once added, data from these accounts will show up across the system in apps like Mail, Calendar, and Tasks as well as in the Date & Time panel indicator.
Remember that some account providers require you to enable IMAP and CalDav support explicitly in your account, and some may require you to use an app password. Refer to your online account providerโs documentation for the exact details.
Other Improvements
Elementary OS 6 also refines and improves most of the built-in applications, including Web, Files, Music, Calendar, Videos, Camera, Code, Mail, Photos, and Terminal.
For detailed information about all changes, you can refer to the official announcement.
Download elementary OS 6
You can download Elementary OS 6 from the project’s website through a “pay-what-you-want” option. If you donโt want to pay, you need to manually enter “0” in the custom amount boxย for a download link to appear.
Of course, we encourage you to donate to this amazing Linux distribution if it’s within your means.
Conclusion
Users have been waiting for this release like anything. Overall, it’s a gorgeous distro with a lot of visual appeal.
Thank you to the many developers, both those working at Elementary OS full-time and those who volunteer. This team has created a wonderful thing. Keep up the great work!
