Elementary OS 8.1 has arrived, bringing a host of improvements to this sleek Ubuntu-based Linux distribution. This update builds on the foundation laid by Elementary OS 8.0, addressing user feedback and incorporating new features to enhance the overall experience.
Kernel and Performance Upgrades
At the core of Elementary OS 8.1 is the Linux kernel 6.11, which introduces significant performance enhancements, particularly for AMD hardware users. This kernel update resolves several issues that had been affecting AMD systems, resulting in smoother operation and improved compatibility.
AppCenter Refinements
The AppCenter, Elementary’s software management hub, has received notable attention in this release:
- Dark mode support for brand colors and screenshots.
- Prioritization of Pantheon-specific screenshots when available.
- Redesigned release notes dialog for a cleaner look.
- Significantly faster search functionality.
These changes make discovering and managing applications a more intuitive and visually consistent experience.
File Management Improvements
The Files application, Elementary’s file manager, has addressed several user-reported issues:
- Fixed problems with entering file paths in search mode.
- Resolved an issue where files would disappear when dropped onto unmounted drives.
- Improved keyboard shortcut functionality for tabs dragged into separate windows.
- Added support for the
admin://URL protocol, allowing easier access to administrative functions.
These updates streamline file management tasks and improve overall usability.
System Settings Enhancements
The System Settings application has received a substantial overhaul:
- New options to configure system update notifications.
- Intelligent handling of updates on metered connections.
- Display of update size before download initiation.
- Progress bar for update downloads.
- Improved accuracy of last refresh time display.
- New toggles in the Network panel for auto-connect and data usage reduction.
These changes give users more control over their system’s behavior and provide clearer information about updates and network usage.
Installer and Onboarding Refinements
Elementary OS 8.1 brings improvements to the installation process and initial setup:
- Fixed a crash in the custom partitioning view of the installer.
- Streamlined the disk encryption setup to a single page.
- Ensured the onboarding process remains centered on the screen, even when resized.
These refinements make the initial Elementary OS experience smoother for new users.
UI and UX Tweaks
Several small but impactful changes improve the overall user interface:
- Added a “Keep in Dock” checkbox to app context menus in the Applications menu.
- Improved power menu with device model information (where available).
- Enhanced sound menu with expanded album art support.
- New keyboard shortcut (
Super+Print) to launch the screenshot application.
Security and Compatibility
Elementary OS 8.1 includes an AppArmor profile to address Flatpak-related issues, improving compatibility and security for containerized applications.
Elementary OS 8.1 refines the solid foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a more polished and efficient Linux desktop experience. Whether you’re a long-time Elementary user or considering trying it for the first time, this update brings welcome improvements across the board.