Useful and Highly Dynamic: GIMP 2.6 has Arrived
The GIMP graphics program includes many new and interesting features in version 2.6.
Among others is to offer developers integration with the Generic Graphics Library (GEGL) to allow non-destructive editing of HDR and RAW graphics that are rendered in up to 32-bit color depth per channel. The GIMP user interface was also integrated with conventional graphics programs by moving the toolbox menu bar into the main window.
HDR and RAW Support
Gleaned from an interview with GIMP developer Simon Budig, the advancement from 16-bit to 32-bit floating point occurred in small steps. GIMP 2.6 provides higher color depths, albeit through a toggle in the Colors menu to switch to the GEGL library (the default is still 8 bits per color channel).
GEGL also allows image edits above and beyond RAM buffer capacity without compromising graphics quality. While High Dynamic Range Imaging (HDRI) is still the norm in digital imagery and game technology, the raw image format of RAW files is a different story: most digital SLR cameras now render pictures in RAW format over a dynamic range of 12-bit to 16-bit color channels.
Polished Interface
Even seasoned users of the GIMP user interface will not have a problem adapting to its new look. New users who might have previously eschewed the interface will also not be disappointed. GIMP 2.6, like other graphics programs, now displays an initial empty image window. This work area integrates the menus from the previous toolbox and allows for drag-and-drop. The Toolbox and Docks menu placement in the main window allows for better window management in that the tools are no longer lost in the background.
A qualitative enhancement is GIMP 2.6's use of the Cairo 2D graphics library, as shown in this comparison. The proof is in the details: the brush can be positioned much more accurately on the edge of an image. The freehand select tool supports polygonal selections and allows mixing freehand with polygonal segments. Brush input dynamics allow mapping of size and opacity to produce velocity-dependent painting, such that a quicker mouse movement will draw a thinner line. A check box in the Paint Tool option allows for true brush-stroke emulation for variability along a brush stroke depending on pressure and velocity.
Evaluation and Download
The GIMP developers are planning changes to the Text Tool in version 2.8. Meanwhile the current changes are described in the GIMP 2.6 release notes. The source code for evaluation is available as tarballs from the downloads website. If you are willing to wait, you can install the newest version from the usual package manager of the distribution when it is ready.
Comments
comments powered by DisqusIssue 41: Linux Shell Handbook 2021 Edition/Special Editions
Buy this issue as a PDF
News
-
GNOME 40 is Now Available on openSUSE
The rolling release edition of openSUSE, Tumbleweed, now offers the latest version of the GNOME desktop.
-
Apple M1 Hardware Support to be Merged into Linux Kernel 5.13
Linux users will be able to install their favorite distribution on Apple’s M1-based hardware.
-
KDE Launches the Qt 5 Patch Collection
To support and maintain a stable Qt 5 for KDE Gears and Frameworks, KDE will maintain a patch collection.
-
Linux Creator Warns Next Kernel Could be Delayed
Linus Torvalds has issued concern about the size of kernel 5.12 and possible delays for its release.
-
System76 Updates its Pangolin Laptop
System76 has released a much-anticipated AMD version of their most popular laptop, the Pangolin.
-
New Debian-Based Distribution Arrives on the Market
TelOS is a new Debian-based Linux distribution with a customized, touch-screen-ready KDE Plasma 5 desktop.
-
System76 Releases New Thelio Desktop
One of the most ardent supporters of open source hardware has released a new desktop machine for home or office.
-
Mageia 8 Now Available with Linux 5.10 LTS
The latest release of Mageia includes improved graphics support for both AMD and NVIDIA GPUs.
-
GNOME 40 Beta has been Released
Anyone looking to test the beta for the upcoming GNOME 40 release can now do so.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 4.2 has Arrived
The latest stable version of OpenMandriva has been released and offers the newest KDE desktop and ARM support.
"Polished interface"
And there is an always open extra window, which you cannot close, because closes the application. When you just want to create a logo or take a screenshot, or just want to drag and drop an image from the desktop, this brainless window is always in the way.