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The new version comes as expected with package updates and applications such as Kernel 2.6.27, X.org 7.3, KDE 4.12 –- alongside 3.5.10 -- Gnome 2.24, Firefox 3, a late release candidate of OpenOffice 3, Compiz fusion 0.7.8 and Virtualbox 2.0.2. New is the lightweight LXDE desktop, side by side with KDE and Gnome. With the FBReader, the new Mandriva also delivers an e-book reader.

The developers claim a 25% increase in boot speed as well as faster closedowns, hibernation and suspend/resume functions. The installer DrakX and the Mandriva Control Center not only have a new look, with Webkits rendering engine it also has a new substructure.

The Mandriva team has acknowledged that drivers and other package extras are hardly essential for most users. Depending on the hardware configuration, unnecessary software like Ati, Nvidia drivers and localizations can be wiped from the harddrive once the installation is complete.

The new version 2009 maintains compatibility with Asus netbooks and the French developers promise full hardware support for all presently available Eee PCs. Netbooks such as Acer Aspire, One and the MSI Wind are also given ample support.

Further info on the new features can be found in the release notes. Version 2009 One is available for download on the website, along with the edition “Free” which is fitted exclusively with free software.

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