Upgrade timing demotes KDE variant of Ubuntu Linux

[Capper]

There are two dominant software projects that provide Linux with a graphical user interface, but only one of them will get long-term support in Ubuntu's next version of the open-source operating system.

GNOME, the default user interface for Ubuntu, will receive the support, but KDE won't. The reason, according to Canonical, which sponsors Ubuntu and is trying to make a business of selling the support contracts, is simply that KDE is at an awkward transitional period between two versions, the old-line 3.5 and the imminent and significantly different 4.0.

Developer interest is focused on KDE 4.0, but it's not mature enough yet to use in the next KDE-based variation of Ubuntu, called Kubuntu, Scott James Remnant, leader of the Ubuntu Desktop team, said in an explanation to a Kubuntu mailing list. But most Kubuntu developers adding features "upstream" of today's products are focused on KDE 4.0, meaning that it's risky to release a long-term support version based on 3.5.

"Given the attention being paid to KDE 4, it is difficult to believe that this will not be the preferred release in three years' time," Remnant said. "The KDE upstream position appears clear: KDE 4 is the focus of developer attention; KDE 3.5 will be supported as long as KDE 4 isn't suitable for support."
Even though I'm among those who prefer KDE overall, I think Canonical's decision is sensible under the circumstances. And maybe, if we're lucky, this choice will be one small step toward moving beyond the problem that there have to be different Ubuntu flavors with different user interfaces in the first place. But more on that later.

Ubuntu 8.04, aka "Hardy Heron" and due in April 2008, will become the second version of Ubuntu Linux to receive Canonical's long-term support (LTS) designation. Most Ubuntu versions are supported for 18 months, but LTS products are supported for three years for desktop machines and five years for servers.

Upgrade timing demotes KDE variant of Ubuntu Linux

[Zambini]

Though I love GNOME (Using it now, as I upgrade to 7.10 :P), its a shame to see money come into play in any linux distro. Especially Ubuntu, which is Linux for Humans, Linux for Everyone... >.>

[screwballl]

once KDE does make that full transition to 4.0, it will be easily installed packages on the Add/Remove Programs area in Ubutunu...
Fedora Core 8 already uses many of the 4.0 features and it runs very well.

[Zambini]

I tried KDE 3.5 and I just don't like it.
The look and feel of it makes me antsy and uncomfortable.

Maybe 4.0 is better?

[othman11]

Never did like KDE, just never felt right. That being said, I do like konquerer though.

[gvblake22]

I'm don't have extensive Linux experience, but the one time I did try KDE I didn't like it much either. The default interface of Ubuntu (GNOME) feels much nicer and more intuitive to me.

[screwballl]

The easiest way for those unfamiliar to linux is, KDE is in a way alot like Aero for Vista, it is an alternative desktop "look" that you can choose to use or not. Some of the functionality (like Aero) still needs a lot of work.
People that prefer simplistic looks always tend to stick with Gnome but those that like Aero in full bloom also tend to prefer KDE in full as well, just the "pretty" factor.

If this is of interest, just do a google search for "KDE versus gnome" and there is a lot of information out there.

[Lead Head]

KDE does seem to be able to do more then GNOME, and seems to be slightly less buggy. But KDE 3.5 just doesn't seem all that fast, or well organized. 4.0 is supposed to be tons better.

@Zambini, the money is for long term support, such as servers or people in enterprise positions who really can't afford to keep upgrading their servers every 6 months

[Zambini]

Oh, so when KDE4 comes out, they'll support it?
That'll be good.


But now that GNOME desktop effects work with my laptop (after upgrading to 7.10) I will never go to KDE. Cuz I've been waiting for years to get those perdy effects :D

[Lead Head]

Originally Posted by Zambini

Oh, so when KDE4 comes out, they'll support it?
That'll be good.


But now that GNOME desktop effects work with my laptop (after upgrading to 7.10) I will never go to KDE. Cuz I've been waiting for years to get those perdy effects :D

Its not Gnome desktop effects, its Compiz! It runs on both KDE and Gnome :-p

Yes, once KDE 4 is mature and stable, they will support it as well.