Linux Lite 8.0 Ditches Chrome for Firefox, Offers Slimmed-Down Ubuntu Base
Linux Lite 8.0 is now available, shifting its default browser from Google Chrome to Mozilla Firefox and rebuilding helper applications with GTK4. Based on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, this version focuses on a leaner experience, notably excluding Snap and Flatpak and reducing its download size by 410 MB compared to its predecessor. The update continues the project's 14-year release cycle.
Key points
- Linux Lite 8.0 has been released, utilizing Ubuntu 26.04 LTS as its foundation.
- The distribution has replaced Google Chrome with Mozilla Firefox as the default web browser.
- Custom helper applications have been rewritten using GTK4.
- Linux Lite 8.0 is approximately 410 MB smaller than its predecessor.
- The release continues to exclude Snap and Flatpak package formats.
Linux Lite 8.0 has officially launched, marking a significant shift by replacing Google Chrome with Mozilla Firefox as its default web browser. This latest iteration is built upon the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (Resolute Raccoon) framework, continuing the distribution's practice of aligning with Ubuntu's Long Term Support releases. This strategic move aims to maintain stability and provide extended support for users.
The development team has also undertaken a rewrite of the distribution's custom helper applications, migrating them to GTK4. This foundational update is expected to improve performance and modernise the user interface elements. Notably, Linux Lite 8.0 prioritizes a streamlined experience by omitting both Snap and Flatpak package formats, a decision intended to help users maintain a lighter system. Consequently, the new release boasts a download size reduced by 410 MB compared to its predecessor, further emphasizing its 'Lite' philosophy.
With a 14-year history, the Linux Lite project maintains a consistent release cadence, with major versions typically based on new Ubuntu LTS releases, followed by incremental point updates. The adoption of Firefox over Chrome, alongside a continued focus on resource efficiency, positions Linux Lite as a choice for users seeking a straightforward and less resource-intensive Linux experience, particularly those transitioning from other operating systems or preferring a more traditional desktop environment with Xfce 4.20.
Sources
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