Canonical has officially announced that Ubuntu 25.04, codenamed ‘Plucky Puffin’, is scheduled for release on 17 April 2025. This upcoming version aims to build upon the foundations of its predecessors, introducing a series of enhancements in performance, security, and user experience.
One of the most anticipated features in ‘Plucky Puffin’ is the integration of GNOME 48, the latest iteration of the GNOME desktop environment. This version is expected to offer refined user interfaces, improved system responsiveness, and a host of new applications designed to enhance productivity. The adoption of GNOME 48 signifies Canonical’s commitment to providing users with a modern and efficient desktop experience.
In line with the ongoing transition towards Wayland, Ubuntu 25.04 will continue to refine its support for this display server protocol. Wayland aims to replace the traditional X11 system, offering better performance and security. Users can expect more stable and efficient graphics handling, particularly beneficial for those utilizing modern hardware configurations.
Security remains a paramount focus for Canonical. ‘Plucky Puffin’ is set to introduce enhanced encryption features, aiming for comprehensive disk encryption to protect user data more effectively. This move aligns with the increasing demand for robust security measures in operating systems, ensuring that user information remains confidential and secure.
The new installer, introduced in previous versions, will see further improvements in Ubuntu 25.04. Designed to streamline the installation process, the installer offers a more intuitive interface and faster setup times. These enhancements aim to make the system more accessible to newcomers while providing advanced options for experienced users.
Canonical’s release strategy includes both Long Term Support and interim releases. While LTS versions receive support for five years, interim releases like ‘Plucky Puffin’ are supported for nine months. These interim versions allow users to access the latest features and improvements ahead of the next LTS release, scheduled biennially in April.
The development of Ubuntu 25.04 follows a structured timeline, with key milestones leading up to the final release. This approach ensures thorough testing and integration of new features, maintaining the stability and reliability that users expect from Ubuntu distributions.
