Introduction

Kubuntu will release version 10.10, the Maverick Meerkat, in October 2010. With this Beta pre-release, we are introducing some new and interesting things in preparation for the next official version of Kubuntu. Read below for some of the highlights. For more information of what is planned and being worked on, please read the information available on this page.

NOTE: This is a beta (pre-) release. Pre-release versions of Maverick are NOT encouraged for anyone needing a stable system or for anyone who is not comfortable running into occasional, even frequent, breakage. Pre-release versions ARE recommended for Kubuntu developers and those who want to help in testing, reporting, and fixing bugs.' Please do not use this in a production environment with data or workflows that you cannot do without.

Getting the Beta

Beta images can be downloaded from the following URL:

• http://cdimage.ubuntu.com/kubuntu/releases/maverick/beta/

It is always best to check your cd image before you install! The md5sums can be found here.

Upgrades can be made from Kubuntu 10.04 LTS, see https://help.ubuntu.com/community/MaverickUpgrades/Kubuntu

What's New In the Beta

Combined Desktop/Netbook ISO image

For 10.10 Beta, Kubuntu has merged the Desktop and Netbook images into one image featuring both the Plasma Desktop and Plasma Netbook workspaces. The appropriate workspace for your machine will be launched at login, you can also change the workspace in System Settings.

New default web browser - Rekonq

Rekonq is now the default web browser for Kubuntu. It is built on both KDE Platform and Qt WebKit technologies and sports a modern, clean interface that maximizes space for web browsing and doesn't get in your way. Both Konqueror and the Kubuntu Firefox Installer are both still provided for users that prefer these options.

Global Menu by default for Plasma Netbook

Plasma Netbook now sports the Global Menu by default. This innovation helps conserve vertical space on small netbook screens. In combination with the Plasma Netbook panel no longer auto hiding by default this represents a significant improvement in Plasma Netbook usability from previous releases.

PulseAudio by default

Kubuntu now uses the PulseAudio sound server by default. Building on the efforts of Ubuntu over the last several release cycles, this system is now used by Kubuntu to give users enhanced configurability, flexibility and ease of use. System settings has been updated to enhance pulseaudio control integration.

BlueDevil

BlueDevil has become the default bluetooth stack.

KPackageKit

KPackageKit updates bring a faster backend and an updated UI that provides a new Categories page, and new features such as a backup/restore tool for the list of installed packages.

Ubiquity Installer

Kubuntu's installer now has updated look and layout.

QApt-batch

Qapt-batch now replaces install-package as the update/batch-installer utility. QApt Batch features improved security features, improved robustness as well as PolicyKit support via QApt.

Known Issues

Due to Bug (608382), if you intend to burn an iso of the Beta to a usb device from a Kubuntu 10.04 LTS system, you will need to make sure you have ubuntu-updates ("Recommended Updates" in KPackageKit's repository settings) enabled to install the bugfix release of usb-creator-kde.

Feedback

We want to hear what you think about this Beta release of Kubuntu 10.10. We want to know if it Rocks, if it is just OK, or it is flat out wrong. No matter the feedback, as long as it is in line with the Ubuntu Code of Conduct we would like to hear it.

So what are you waiting for; head on over to the Feedback Page and let us know!