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.
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
-
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.