Open Office 3: Beta with more Extensions
The Open Office project has just released version 3 of the free office package.
The biggest change, according to the changelog is the way the software handles extensions.
Extensions include dictionaries, which are extremely simple to install. If the dictionary scope changes, users receive an update message and can install the extended version. Changes to the user interface make it easier for users to install add-ons. In future the system will be identifiable by the "oxt" suffix, and will auto-install when double-clicked.
Open Office normally warns users when they import Visual Basic macros, however, this warning can be ignored by enabling an additional function. Open Office uses the interoperability API to execute the macro code. Another feature - Calc now supports collaboration: a new feature gives multiple Open Office Calc users the ability to work together on Calc spreadsheets, monitor changes and block cells if needed. Continuous updates ensure that all users see the changes.
Finally, there are many smaller changes. The database menu now lets users insert and delete records, charts offer more flexible graphics by supporting perspectives and notices in documents are far more attractive.
Another tip: if Open Office 3 launches too slowly for your liking, the tip in this blog will help accelerate the free office suite. If you are interested in Open Office 3, you can either wait for an update of the distribution or download the current beta version from the product page.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Canonical Releases Ubuntu 24.04
After a brief pause because of the XZ vulnerability, Ubuntu 24.04 is now available for install.
-
Linux Servers Targeted by Akira Ransomware
A group of bad actors who have already extorted $42 million have their sights set on the Linux platform.
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.
-
XZ Gets the All-Clear
The back door xz vulnerability has been officially reverted for Fedora 40 and versions 38 and 39 were never affected.
-
Canonical Collaborates with Qualcomm on New Venture
This new joint effort is geared toward bringing Ubuntu and Ubuntu Core to Qualcomm-powered devices.
-
Kodi 21.0 Open-Source Entertainment Hub Released
After a year of development, the award-winning Kodi cross-platform, media center software is now available with many new additions and improvements.
-
Linux Usage Increases in Two Key Areas
If market share is your thing, you'll be happy to know that Linux is on the rise in two areas that, if they keep climbing, could have serious meaning for Linux's future.
-
Vulnerability Discovered in xz Libraries
An urgent alert for Fedora 40 has been posted and users should pay attention.
-
Canonical Bumps LTS Support to 12 years
If you're worried that your Ubuntu LTS release won't be supported long enough to last, Canonical has a surprise for you in the form of 12 years of security coverage.
-
Fedora 40 Beta Released Soon
With the official release of Fedora 40 coming in April, it's almost time to download the beta and see what's new.