Ubuntu 8.10 Launches Thursday

The latest version of the popular Linux operating system boasts 3G support, an updated desktop environment, and "guest sessions" for more privacy when loaning a computer.

Hardcore Ubuntu fans around the world may have been tinkering with beta releases of the brand new 8.10 version for weeks now, but more timid users will finally get a chance to break it on Thursday when Canonical releases the final stable version. The new release will feature built-in 3G support, “guest sessions” for more private sharing of computers, and programming from the BBC built into Ubuntu’s media player, among other new features.

To support the growing array of 3G USB dongles used with notebooks to provide connectivity on the go, Ubuntu 8.10 provides a simplified interface and auto-detection for them. The new version will also streamline the process of installing it to a thumb drive using a built-in app that streamlines the process. Guest sessions will allow users to loan a computer out to someone else without sharing private data on board, and Totem Movie Player and Rhythmbox will both now come with streaming video, radio and podcasts from the BBC. The Gnome desktop environment has also been bumped to version 2.24, which includes a new instant messaging client, a built-in time tracker, and better support for multiple monitor use with the ability to set screen resolution by monitor.

As usual, Canonical will provide the release as a completely free download on Thursday when it launches the final version.