Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Will Throw Out Two Old Apps for More Swanky Alternatives
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is shaping up to be one of the most significant releases in recent Linux history. Known for its stability and long-term support, each LTS edition sets the tone for millions of desktops, servers, and enterprise deployments worldwide.
With the upcoming 26.04 release, Canonical is making a bold move by removing two long-standing applications that have been part of the Ubuntu ecosystem for years. These apps are being replaced with modern, feature-rich, and more user-friendly alternatives designed to bring Ubuntu up to cutting-edge usability standards.
This article breaks down exactly which apps are being replaced, why Canonical is making this decision, what new tools are coming in, and how these changes will affect everyday users, developers, and organizations relying on Ubuntu.
Which Two Apps Are Being Replaced?
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is expected to remove the following legacy applications:
1. The Traditional “Text Editor” (gedit)
gedit has been a familiar default app in Ubuntu for over a decade. While lightweight and reliable, it has fallen behind modern code editors in terms of functionality, plugin support, and UI features.
2. The Archive Manager (file-roller)
Archive Manager has served as the default tool for handling ZIP, TAR, and other compressed file types. However, its UI and performance have not aged well, especially compared to more streamlined, integrated file-management solutions.
These two apps are being retired to give space for modern alternatives that match the needs of today’s users.
Why Is Ubuntu Removing These Legacy Apps?
Canonical’s decision is driven by several factors:
- Modern UI standards: Many of the older GTK apps no longer align with GNOME’s modern design language.
- Better developer support: Legacy apps receive fewer updates and lack modern integrations such as cloud syncing and plugin APIs.
- User demand: Surveys show that Ubuntu users prefer more advanced editors and file tools.
- Performance optimization: New apps offer better memory efficiency and improved startup times.
In short, Ubuntu 26.04 is moving toward a more polished, consistent, and future-proof application ecosystem.
The New Swanky Alternatives
1. Replacing gedit → GNOME Text Editor
The GNOME Text Editor is the modern successor to gedit. Featuring a refreshed interface, better syntax highlighting, autosave, and seamless integration with GNOME Shell, it offers a significantly improved writing and coding experience.
2. Replacing File Roller → GNOME Archive Utility
The new Archive Utility is faster, cleaner, supports more formats, and integrates directly with the File Manager. Creating and extracting archives becomes more intuitive and aligned with the modern GNOME workflow.
Benefits for Users
- Cleaner and more consistent UI across all GNOME apps
- Faster performance on low-end and modern hardware
- Better support for developers and power users
- Improved compatibility with plugins, extensions, and cloud services
- Reduced legacy dependencies for long-term system stability
Impact on Developers and Workflows
Developers who relied on gedit or File Roller may need to adjust workflows slightly, but the new apps offer equivalent — and often superior — features. The transitions are designed to be smooth, and migration requires no manual configuration.
Community Reactions
The Linux community — known for being vocal — has reacted with a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Many welcome the cleanup of old software, while others feel attached to the legacy tools. Overall, the response is positive due to the performance and usability improvements.
How to Prepare for the Change
- Back up custom gedit settings or plugins
- Test GNOME Text Editor before upgrading
- Ensure script or workflow compatibility if relying on File Roller
- Update system packages to avoid broken dependencies during upgrade
Conclusion
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS marks a new chapter in Ubuntu’s evolution. By removing aging applications and introducing modern, feature-rich replacements, Canonical ensures a cleaner, faster, and more intuitive user experience. Whether you're a developer, student, or everyday desktop user, these updates will make Ubuntu feel fresher and more aligned with modern computing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I still install gedit after upgrading?
Yes. gedit will remain available in the Ubuntu repositories.
2. Will this change affect scripts that rely on File Roller?
Most scripts should continue to work, but testing is recommended.
3. Is Ubuntu removing more legacy apps in the future?
Canonical has hinted at more modernization across the next releases.
إرسال تعليق