Canonical has announced that the updated version of its open source operating system, Ubuntu 14.04 Long Term Support (LTS), is now available for download.
As expected with LTS releases, this Ubuntu 14.04 LTS "Trusty Tahr" does not bring any radical changes, but it adds stability and improves the interim changes.
"The 14.04 LTS release offers a solid, intuitive experience which is easy to manage," explained Canonical CEO Jane Silber. "It is a viable and affordable alternative for those organisations considering a switch from Microsoft, and specifically those replacing XP or Windows 7 as they come to the end of life."
Ubuntu 14.04 LTS aims to provide a seamless ride for organizations upgrading from the previous Ubuntu 12.04 LTS. According to Canonical, the new version now brings a slicker experience and adds notable improvements to the Unity UI. The release also comes with all the tools business users need, including remote delivery of applications, browser-based cloud solutions, complete compatibility with Windows file formats, as well as the Microsoft Office-compatible LibreOffice suite.
Moreover, Ubuntu 14.04 is also optimized for desktop and laptops with multi-touch trackpads and touchscreens, and it also supports displays with a high pixel density (DPI). This allows users to enjoy the latest Ubuntu LTS even on the most recent hardware.
At the same time, Ubuntu 14.04 LTS also shows that Canonical remains committed to working on its vision of truly converging its OS across desktop, phone, and tablet. The app store for Ubuntu is also constantly adding apps from developers who are using Ubuntu SDK to develop applications that run across phones, tablets, and desktop. As Canonical points out, these apps are designed to automatically resize and adjust in order to maximize the space available while also providing "the same core functionality, all from the same code-base."
The latest Ubuntu 14.04 LTS also allows users to experience Unity 8, the next-generation UI that is currently running on Ubuntu phones and tablets, toward the same endeavor of delivering a single experience across multiple devices.
"The early preview showcases the convergence vision and demonstrates applications that work across all Ubuntu devices. 14.04 LTS will also form the basis of the first commercially available Ubuntu tablets, from Canonical's OEM partners," the company further explains.
Lastly, Ubuntu 14.04 LTS Trusty Tahr will be providing security updates for as long as five years instead of the regular nine-month period and it's also the first time the OS works well with high-definition screens. To try it out, download the latest Ubuntu 14.04 LTS at this link.
