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 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
-
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.
-
New Pentesting Distribution to Compete with Kali Linux
SnoopGod is now available for your testing needs
-
Juno Computers Launches Another Linux Laptop
If you're looking for a powerhouse laptop that runs Ubuntu, the Juno Computers Neptune 17 v6 should be on your radar.
-
ZorinOS 17.1 Released, Includes Improved Windows App Support
If you need or desire to run Windows applications on Linux, there's one distribution intent on making that easier for you and its new release further improves that feature.
-
Linux Market Share Surpasses 4% for the First Time
Look out Windows and macOS, Linux is on the rise and has even topped ChromeOS to become the fourth most widely used OS around the globe.
-
KDE’s Plasma 6 Officially Available
KDE’s Plasma 6.0 "Megarelease" has happened, and it's brimming with new features, polish, and performance.
-
Latest Version of Tails Unleashed
Tails 6.0 is based on Debian 12 and includes GNOME 43.
-
KDE Announces New Slimbook V with Plenty of Power and KDE’s Plasma 6
If you're a fan of KDE Plasma, you'll be thrilled to hear they've announced a new Slimbook with an AMD CPU and the latest version of KDE Plasma desktop.
-
Monthly Sponsorship Includes Early Access to elementary OS 8
If you want to get a glimpse of what's in the pipeline for elementary OS 8, just set up a monthly sponsorship to help fund its continued existence.
-
DebConf24 to be Held in South Korea
Busan will be the location of the latest DebConf running July 28 through August 4
"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.