Canonical announced that Ubuntu 9.10 Desktop Edition has been released. This version focusses on improvements in cloud computing on the server using Eucalyptus, further improvements in boot speed, as well as development on Netbook Remix. The related KDE, Xfce, and other variants have been released as well.

This new release comes with GIMP 2.6, GNOME 2.28, Mozilla Firefox 3.5, OpenOffice.org 3.1, Linux kernel 2.6.31, X.Org 7.5, and the Empathy Instant Messenger instead of Pidgin. The Ubuntu One client, which interfaces with Canonical's new online storage system, is installed by default. It also debuts a new application called the Ubuntu Software Center that unifies package management.

The default filesystem is ext4, and Ubuntu 9.10 has transitioned to Upstart, improving boot performance. On top of that, GRUB 2 is now the default bootloader - however, if you are upgrading a system which still uses the old legacy GRUB, it won't be updated to GRUB 2, as this is a risky operation. The Grub2Testing page explains how to upgrade to GRUB 2 if you wish to do so anyway.

“Ubuntu 9.10 gives users more reasons than ever to seriously consider Linux at a time when many are thinking again about their operating system options. We are delivering a platform for users interested in an easy-to-use, great-looking, web-friendly operating system," says Jane Silber, COO at Canonical. “A faster, more beautiful boot and login sequence, file and contact synchronisation through online services and great experiences on the most popular notebook, desktop and netbook models continue to drive Ubuntu into the mainstream of computing choices."


You can download Ubuntu 9.10 here.