Wine Improves 3D and MAPI Support
This past weekend the Wine project released a new version of its Windows emulator. Apart from the numerous obligatory bug fixes, the release includes improvements to the Direct3D 10 API and an initial support for the Open Audio Library (OpenAL).
With help from Wine software, most Windows applications can also run under Linux. Unlike virtualization solutions such as VirtualBox, Wine translates the system and library calls to their Linux counterparts. This allows Windows applications not only to run in a Linux environment, but to do so somewhat faster.
Alexandre Julliard has now released version 1.1.30 of Wine. The major new features include:
- Support for OpenAL libraries for surround sound
- Enhanced Direct3D 10 API, which runs games as a counterpart to Microsoft's OpenGL
- Improved HTML, JavaScript and MAPI support
- Improved common controls
Many minor bugs were also fixed, especially those related to games. The .NET Framework 1.1 now installs flawlessly, the Bioshock game no longer crashes when loading the second level and the Steam client displays correct colors. Erratic behavior in the Myst 4, Prince of Persia and Flatout 2 games was also fixed, as well as a font problem in some games. Irregularities in Corel Painter X, Visual C++ and GNU Emacs were also eliminated. Finally, path problems in the Save dialog were fixed and Internet Explorer 7 startups no longer return
Cannot find '%ws'
errors.
The release notes include the full list of bug fixes and enhancements. A database of all compatible Windows programs and installation hints are on the project homepage.
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
-
Kali Linux Waxes Nostalgic with BackTrack Mode
For those who've used Kali Linux since its inception, the changes with the new release are sure to put a smile on your face.
-
Gnome 50 Smooths Out NVIDIA GPU Issues
Gamers rejoice, your favorite pastime just got better with Gnome 50 and NVIDIA GPUs.
-
System76 Retools Thelio Desktop
The new Thelio Mira has landed with improved performance, repairability, and front-facing ports alongside a high-quality tempered glass facade.
-
Some Linux Distros Skirt Age Verification Laws
After California introduced an age verification law recently, open source operating system developers have had to get creative with how they deal with it.
-
UN Creates Open Source Portal
In a quest to strengthen open source collaboration, the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology has created a new portal.
-
Latest Linux Kernel RC Contains Changes Galore
Linux kernel 7.0-rc3 includes more changes than have been made in a single release in recent history.
-
Nitrux 6.0 Now Ready to Rock Your World
The latest iteration of the Debian-based distribution includes all kinds of newness.
-
Linux Foundation Reports that Open Source Delivers Better ROI
In a report that may surprise no one in the Linux community, the Linux Foundation found that businesses are finding a 5X return on investment with open source software.
-
Keep Android Open
Google has announced that, soon, anyone looking to develop Android apps will have to first register centrally with Google.
-
Kernel 7.0 Now in Testing
Linus Torvalds has announced the first Release Candidate (RC) for the 7.x kernel is available for those who want to test it.