Ubuntu Core Desktop is returning

Canonical has restarted development of the Ubuntu Core Desktop project, which is based on a fixed operating system design. All key parts of the system, including the kernel and bootloader, are packaged in Snap packages. This approach limits direct intervention in core system components, which can increase security and make it easier to recover from potential problems.

Photo: Canonical

The first beta version was released back in 2023, but the project’s development has since slowed down. Now, Ubuntu Core Desktop is back with a dedicated team of developers. In the Ubuntu 27.04 development cycle, Canonical aims to tailor the system to three main use cases: web browsing, software development, and gaming. The goal is to create a reliable desktop environment that is harder to “break,” while giving users finer control over how applications access their data.

For web browsing, established browsers such as Firefox and Chromium will be available. An important part of the design is also controlling permissions, for example for access to the camera and microphone. The isolated environments should allow developers to work more securely with various software tools and artificial intelligence systems without unnecessarily exposing the underlying operating system. When it comes to gaming, Canonical is targeting users who want a stable environment for running games, including with the help of the Proton tool, which allows many Windows games to run on Linux.

Despite the promise of a fixed design and increased security, the project still faces a number of challenges. The requirement that applications and system components be adapted to the Snap format may limit compatibility with some existing programs and require additional work from developers. Support for different hardware, performance, and reliability of updates will also be important. An immutable system is not completely immune to bugs, security vulnerabilities, or compatibility issues.

Canonical is expected to release official daily previews of Ubuntu Core Desktop soon. Until then, the classic Ubuntu desktop environment remains unchanged, so the project is primarily a look into the possible future of desktop Linux.