It will still use Ubuntu as a base, and GNOME will be the desktop environment. The company is customizing the operating system, however, with things like fonts, themes, and icons, to create something truly unique. This could lead to an improved user experience. Today, the first official beta of the operating system becomes available for download.
While there are certainly too many Linux distributions nowadays, I do see value in a computer-seller taking control of the overall user experience. Since System76 customers often focus on creativity, it is wise to foster that with Pop!_OS, hopefully inspiring users to create bigger and better things. Ultimately, there is room for System76’s operating system among the already-crowded Linux distro landscape.
Before you download Pop_OS! Beta, please know that there are some known issues. System76 shares them below.
- On HiDPI displays Initial Setup is not scaled
- nVidia systems with Optimus may require removing “splash” from the
kernel boot parameter- Firefox incorrectly displays a privacy notice and upgrade option on
first use- Installer release notes point to an Ubuntu site
