about elementary OS

elementary OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. It makes use of a desktop with its own shell named Pantheon and is deeply

integrated with other elementary OS applications like Plank (a dock), Midori (the default web browser) and Scratch (a simple text editor). This distribution uses Gala as its window manager, which is based on Mutter.

The distribution initially started as a set of themes and applications designed for Ubuntu which later turned into its own Linux distribution. Being Ubuntu-based, it is compatible with its repositories and packages and uses Ubuntu's own software centerto handle installation/removal of software. Its user interface aims at being intuitive for new users without consuming too many resources.

Design philosophy

The elementary OS project aims to solve a number of perceived deficiencies in other GNU/Linux distributions, namely:

• better global aesthetics by streamlining the user interface;
• reduce software dependency by using core applications written in the C language or Vala;
• diminish the need to access the terminal.

Although not contrary to the GNU philosophy, these deliberate design choices diverge from what most GNU/Linux distributions opt for: a freedom to set up and customize one's own desktop environment. The Human Interface Guidelines of the elementary OS project focus instead on immediate usability with a gentle learning curve, rather than full-fledged customization. The three core rules the developers set for themselves were "concision", "avoid configuration" and "minimal documentation".

Since its inception, elementary OS has received both praise and criticism for its design that closely resembles that of OS X — regarding both the visual design and the user experience.

Software components

• Pantheon Greeter: Session manager based on LightDM.
• Wingpanel: Top panel, similar in function to GNOME Shell's top panel.
• Slingshot: Application launcher located in WingPanel.
• Plank: Dock (upon which Docky is based).
• Switchboard: Settings application (or control panel).
• Midori: Web browser based on WebKitGTK+.
• Geary: Email client written in Vala.
• Maya: Desktop calendar.
• Noise: Audio player.
• Scratch: Simple text editor, comparable to gedit or Notepad
• Pantheon Terminal: Terminal emulator.
• Pantheon Files: File manager.

Installation

elementary OS is distributed free-of-charge (with an optional financial contribution to the development team) Live CD/Live USB, which allows users the choice to try the system out without the need to install it. The installer is Ubiquity, the default installer for Ubuntu and most of its derivatives.

Versions

0.1 Jupiter

The first stable version of elementary OS was Jupiter, published in March 2011 and based on Ubuntu 10.10. Since October 2012, it is no longer supported and thus no longer available for download in elementary OS official web site apart from in a historical capacity.

0.2 Luna

In November 2012, the first beta version of elementary OS code-named Luna was released, which uses Ubuntu 12.04 LTS as a base.The second beta version of Luna was released on 6 May 2013, carrying more than 300 bug fixes and several changes such as improved support for multiple localizations, multiple display support and updated applications. On 7 August 2013, a countdown clock appeared on the official website with a countdown to 10 August 2013. The second stable version of elementary OS, Luna, was released that same day, along with a complete overhaul and redesign of the elementary OS website.

0.3 Freya

The name of the third stable version of elementary OS, Isis, was proposed in August 2013 by Daniel Foré, the project leader. It was later changed to Freya to avoid association with the terrorist group ISIS. It is based on Ubuntu 14.04 LTS, which was released in April 2014. The first beta of Freya was released on 11 August 2014. The second beta of Freya was released on 8 February 2015. The final version was released on 11 April 2015, after a countdown clock appeared on the website eight days before its release.

0.4 Loki

elementary OS 0.4 is currently codenamed Loki, although the name is subject to change.