RemoveGimp
Launchpad Entry: remove-gimp
Created: July 1, 2009
Contributors: Viper550
Packages affected: gimp
Summary
This specification proposes the removal of the GNU Image Manipulation Program (hereafter The GIMP) from the default installation of Ubuntu.
Release Note
- "The GIMP has been removed from the default installation in order to make room for more features and content to be included in Ubuntu. Basic functionality for image editing provided by The GIMP can be found in some of Ubuntu's other applications, such as F-Spot. The GIMP remains available in the package repository."
Rationale
The GIMP, has never had a interface as "good" as Photoshop. Its multi-window layout and other advanced abilities may seem daunting to newer users, who may only have interests in photography-related functions (which can be pulled off by some of Ubuntu's more user-friendly applications such as F-Spot. Removal of The GIMP may also decrease the file size of future releases, and provide more room for more useful components.
Assumptions
- Most of Ubuntu's casual users do not have the use for such a powerful image editor. If they do need The GIMP, it can easily be installed.
- The functionality of present tools is more appropriate for photography and The GIMP is not absolutely required for these tasks.
Implementation
The GIMP and its dependencies (if not depended on by other applications) will be removed from the package offering on Ubuntu ISO's. The application will not be removed by upgrades to newer versions or be removed from the package repositories.
UI Changes
Gimp should be given at least a prominent entry in the Add/Remove Software tool emphasizing its advanced functionality in comparison to other tools on Ubuntu.
Code Changes
Code changes should include an overview of what needs to change, and in some cases even the specific details.
Unresolved issues
*How would users, or the community react to such a change?