GNOME 41 Beta is Now Available
The most popular open-source desktop environment is on the cusp of yet another new release, but don’t expect the massive changes found in the previous iteration.
GNOME 40 brought to life some major changes to the desktop environment (such as the horizontal workflow). And although topping that release would be a monumental task, the developers do have some tricks up their sleeve for the soon-to-be-released GNOME 41. And now that the desktop environment is in beta, you can experience those tweaks for yourself.
The big-ticket items for this upcoming release include a new multitasking panel in the Settings window. This new Settings tab allows you to configure Hot Corners, Active Screen Edges, Workspace options, and app switching preferences.
Another new option found in the Settings tool is called Cellular, which allows users to configure mobile connections and modems. This option will only appear when GNOME recognizes the necessary hardware for that purpose.
The GNOME Software tool is also getting a few tweaks, most of which are merely cosmetic. You’ll also find the Power Profiles tool (introduced in GNOME 40) has evolved to make it easier to quickly switch between profiles. Those profiles have also been better integrated into the system. For example, the low power profile is now automatically activated when a laptop battery reaches a low level.
A new remote desktop app, called Connections, has been introduced, which makes it possible to easily connect and switch between multiple remote desktop sessions.
Finally, there have been numerous boosts to the performance of the desktop, so expect it to run even better than GNOME 40 (which should be impressive).
Find out more about what’s been improved and added in the official announcement.
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