Strike 2: Latest Test Version of Ubuntu 9.10 Released
Ubuntu has released a second alpha version of Karmic Koala containing the earliest new features.
Changes include the sync of Debian Unstable packages, a 2.6.30 kernel and an upgraded GNOME 2.27.1.
The release brings major advantages for systems running Intel graphic cards. The new kernel mode setting will reduce boot flicker and increase suspend/resume speed. Linux-restricted-modules, used in the past to deliver proprietary drivers on Ubuntu, have been replaced by a Dynamic Kernel Support (DKS) which will have to be integrated into Jockey and Ubiquity during further development.
HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) will no longer take care of special function buttons (volume, contrast etc.). These operations have been transported to "DeviceKit-power" and "udev-extras".
As previously reported, the change of drivers from EXA to UXA support has also improved the situation of users with Intel graphics. While UXA is still considered unstable, Ubuntu is asking for bug reports.
GRUB 2 is now the standard boot-manager on new installations and the GCC compiler comes in version 4.4 with Ext 4 the new default file system. Download versions of Ubuntu's second alpha can be found here:
Ubuntu (and Netbook Remix, MIDs and for server)
Kubuntu
Xubuntu
ARM Processors
Comments
comments powered by DisqusSubscribe 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
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.
Strike 3 yer out!