This is the first time that I have adopted a new linux distro within 2 days of it being launched. Ubuntu launched Gutsy Gibbon (code name for Ubuntu 7.10, the latest Ubuntu release) on oct 18 (press release) and I managed to install it on Oct 20 and its fully functional...... yes all eye candy, desktop effects, also work and they are GREAT!
I am truly impressed and here are a few reasons why :
1. Installing Gutsy gibbon was easy and fast. It took me exactly 35 minutes to install it. Before you compare it with benchmarks, please note that I am not a geek.... i do not understand kernels and more. Infact I still remember that installation of windows XP from the IBM Pre-desktop area took me more time.
2. Everything worked out of the box. I did not have to download or install any proprietary drivers. Ironically, with Windows XP (retail version) installation earlier, I was forced to download some drivers from the IBM website.
3. I have an ATI FireGL card on my laptop and Compiz is working fine without the need of installing the proprietary drivers. I am amazed. With Dapper Drake, I tried and tried but could not get compiz to work. Here it is working from the word go. I have also installed CompizConfig Settings Manager that allows additional desktop effects. Again installation of CompizConfig Settings Manager was also very smooth. I used the Synaptic Package manager and it only took 3 clicks.
So this is a good start. All I need to do now is to get the other essentials like thunderbird, mplayer etc....
:)
Thanks Canonical!!!!
Forlong's blog has a great description of the advanced desktop effects and their 'real' benefits. you can read it here.
