Chapter #2: What’s New in Ubuntu 24.04?

The long-awaited Ubuntu 24.04 LTS “Noble Numbat” is finally here, bringing a host of exciting updates and improvements.

As one of the most widely used long-term support (LTS) releases of the world’s favorite Linux distribution, this version is set to power millions of systems for years to come.

Whether you’re a seasoned Ubuntu veteran or just starting your Linux journey, each new release brings noticeable changes, and 24.04 is no exception.

The Ubuntu team has worked tirelessly to refine the user experience, add powerful features, and make this release more versatile than ever.

In this chapter, we’ll dive into some of the standout improvements in Ubuntu 24.04 LTS:

• A completely redesigned Software Center with a sleek, modern interface for easier app discovery.
• The latest GNOME 46 desktop delivers a polished and productive user experience.
• A brand-new installer that streamlines setup, making installation faster and simpler than ever.
• Extended support for up to 12 years, ensuring stability and updates for over a decade.

Having tested Ubuntu 24.04 LTS from its earliest development builds, it’s clear that these updates not only shape Ubuntu’s future but could also redefine how we use desktop Linux overall.

Get ready to explore a release that’s faster, smarter, and more powerful than ever before.

A Fresh Look and Feel - Desktop Environment Enhancements

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS represents the culmination of two years of focused development and refinement, bringing a desktop experience that looks and feels better than ever.

From the moment you log in, the changes are noticeable, like sleeker visuals, smoother interactions, and an interface designed to make every task feel effortless.

These enhancements aren’t just cosmetic; they’re crafted to boost confidence, streamline workflows, and even attract users from other Linux distributions who are ready to make Ubuntu their primary desktop.

In this section, we’ll dive into the standout updates and improvements that make Ubuntu 24.04 LTS not only more beautiful but also smarter and more intuitive, giving you a desktop experience that’s both powerful and inviting.

A Completely Redesigned Software Center

For anyone just entering the Linux world, one of the biggest challenges they face is learning how to install new software and get programs up and running.

To make this easier, Ubuntu provides a Software Center that offers one-click installation for applications, and it has received improvements with every release and comes with a fresh and beautiful design that is built using the Flutter framework, which looks sleek compared to the old GNOME Software Store.

Continuing Ubuntu’s Snap-first vision, all applications displayed here are Snaps. .deb apps are not featured by default; you must change the filter to see them. While Debian packages are still available, accessing them is slightly more cumbersome now.

The Manage page lets you view, update, and delete installed apps, with filters for sorting. You can update all apps simultaneously, though uninstalling still requires visiting each app’s page individually.

Overall, this is a fantastic software manager and a major upgrade for LTS users.

A Brand-New Installer

One of the reasons Ubuntu remains a top choice for beginners is its dedication to making the Linux experience simple, intuitive, and efficient for everyone.

A key part of that experience is the installer, the very first thing you see when setting up Ubuntu, and now, Ubuntu’s installer is more streamlined and visually appealing than ever.

There are two installation methods to suit different needs:

• Interactive Installation - the traditional step-by-step setup.
• Automated Installation - using an autoinstall.yaml configuration file, ideal for admins or large deployments.

You can also choose between a minimal install (just the base system and essentials) or an extended install (a ready-to-use system with LibreOffice and extra tools).

While the installer is fast, sleek, and user-friendly, some early users have noted minor bugs during partitioning, but the overall experience is great.

New Firmware Updater

When we talk about firmware, we mean the software embedded in your devices that keeps them running smoothly at a low level.

With Ubuntu 24.04, managing firmware has never been easier thanks to the new Firmware Updater app that covers BIOS, GPU, network, and storage firmware, which is a powerful tool that makes updates safer and more accessible than ever, giving you confidence in keeping your system up to date.

Update to the Ubuntu Font