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
-
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.
"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.