Ubuntu 14.04 LTS: 5 Essential Things to Know
Ubuntu 14.04 LTS: A Detailed Overview
Ubuntu 14.04 LTS represents the newest iteration of the Ubuntu operating system. In keeping with recent trends, this release doesn't introduce dramatically new, attention-grabbing features.
Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has implemented several significant modifications. However, these enhancements are subtle and may not be immediately apparent to the average user.
Key Improvements and Focus Areas
The 14.04 release is characterized by numerous refinements and updates to existing software packages. It provides a dependable upgrade path for current users, though it doesn't represent a revolutionary shift.
Currently, a substantial portion of Canonical’s development resources are being directed towards Ubuntu Mobile. This platform is designed for use on smartphones and tablet devices.
The focus on mobile development indicates a strategic shift for Canonical. They are actively expanding Ubuntu’s reach beyond traditional desktop and server environments.
Under-the-Hood Enhancements
While lacking prominent new features, Ubuntu 14.04 boasts a wealth of internal improvements. These changes contribute to enhanced stability and performance.
These improvements are designed to optimize the user experience without requiring significant adjustments to workflows. The result is a more polished and efficient operating system.
Software updates are a core component of this release. Users will benefit from the latest versions of essential applications and system tools.
Deactivating Amazon Search Integration in Ubuntu
Related: A guide to disabling Amazon Search Ads within Ubuntu's Unity Dash.
For several Ubuntu releases, Amazon search results have been incorporated into the Unity dash. Ubuntu 14.04 represents the initial instance where users maintaining the Long Term Support (LTS) versions of Ubuntu will encounter these integrated results.
When a search for an application or file is initiated on your computer via the dash, the search query is transmitted to Ubuntu’s servers. These servers then forward the request to Amazon, displaying corresponding Amazon search results. Canonical receives a commission should a purchase be made through these Amazon links.
The inclusion of these results within the dash may not be optimal. If the dash is primarily used for launching applications, the Amazon search results can prove disruptive. Furthermore, some users may prefer not to have their search queries sent to Ubuntu servers.
There are two methods available to disable this Amazon search integration. The simpler approach involves utilizing the System Settings window. Access this by clicking the gear menu located in the top-right corner and selecting System Settings. Then, click the Security & Privacy icon, navigate to the Search tab, and switch the "Include online search results" option to the Off position.
Be aware that this action will also disable all other online search results displayed within the dash. To specifically disable only the Amazon search results, the unity-lens-shopping package must be uninstalled. Execute the following command in a terminal window to remove Amazon search results while preserving other online search functionalities:
sudo apt-get remove unity-lens-shopping
Additionally, Ubuntu provides a direct link to Amazon within your launcher. This link can be removed by right-clicking the Amazon icon and selecting "Unlock from Launcher."
Deactivating the Global Menu is Straightforward
The Ubuntu operating system now provides a method for disabling the global menu functionality without the need for package removal. When activated, window-specific menus will no longer be displayed on the top panel.
Instead, these menus will be integrated directly into the title bar of the active window. This adjustment can potentially reduce mouse travel distance and offer a more conventional desktop experience for users transitioning from Windows or other traditional Linux environments.
Similar to the behavior of the global menu itself, this alternative menu system remains hidden until mouse hover interaction occurs over the window's title bar.
Configuration of this feature is accessible through the System Settings interface. Navigate to System Settings, then select the Appearance icon, and finally choose the "In the window's title bar" option under the 'Show the menus for a window' setting.
Discontinuation of Ubuntu One Services
Related: 4 Alternatives to Google Drive for Linux
Users who have installed prior Ubuntu releases may have established an Ubuntu One account. This service functioned as a cloud storage solution integrated directly within Ubuntu, offering 5 GB of free storage and cross-platform accessibility.
Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has decided to cease operations of Ubuntu One. The competitive landscape, particularly with Google offering 100 GB for $1.99 monthly, has made continued operation unsustainable. Therefore, individuals relying on Ubuntu One must migrate their data to an alternative cloud service prior to its shutdown date of June 1, 2014.
The Ubuntu One software package is no longer incorporated into Ubuntu 14.04 LTS installations.
For former Ubuntu One users, Dropbox represents a viable cloud storage alternative. Dropbox provides official Linux support and a complimentary 2 GB of storage. Installation is simplified through availability within the Ubuntu Software Center.
Despite previous announcements, Google Drive currently lacks official Linux support. Similarly, Microsoft’s OneDrive does not offer compatibility with the Linux operating system.
Exploring Alternative Options
If secure, encrypted cloud storage is a priority, SpiderOak is worth considering. However, be aware that its user interface is comparatively more complex.
Here's a summary of potential replacements:
- Dropbox: Easy to use, official Linux support, 2 GB free.
- Google Drive: No official Linux support currently.
- Microsoft OneDrive: No Linux support.
- SpiderOak: Encrypted storage, complex interface.
It is crucial to transition away from Ubuntu One to avoid data loss as the service is being discontinued.
Challenges with Ubuntu Web App Integration
This discussion pertains to the installation and utilization of Ubuntu’s web app functionality.
Recent modifications to Ubuntu’s web app integration have introduced a change in how these applications function. Specifically, when a web app is created for a service such as Gmail, Ubuntu now employs the same browser engine utilized on Ubuntu Mobile.
Impact of the New Integration
While this alteration was intended to foster greater consistency between the desktop and mobile iterations of Ubuntu, it has resulted in usability issues for users seeking to actively employ these web apps.
The browser used for these web apps exhibits diminished performance and lacks support for essential plugins, such as the Flash plug-in.
Alternative Approach for Web App Launchers
For those desiring launcher icons for their frequently used web applications, bypassing Ubuntu’s native integration features is advisable.
Instead, installing either the Chromium or Chrome web browser and leveraging the "Tools > Create application shortcuts" menu option provides a more reliable method for generating launcher icons and dedicated windows for preferred web apps.
Chromium and Chrome are recommended due to the absence of this functionality within Firefox.
It's important to note that this alternative method offers a more functional experience compared to the current native integration.
TRIM Functionality Now Active by Default
Related: Ubuntu’s Default SSD Configuration: TRIM Support and Manual Activation
Previously, we discussed the fact that older Ubuntu versions did not automatically activate TRIM support. TRIM is a crucial function for maintaining optimal performance in solid-state drives (SSDs). With Ubuntu 14.04, activation no longer requires manual configuration – TRIM is now enabled by default.
Users with SSDs who haven't previously enabled TRIM should experience improved disk performance when upgrading to Ubuntu 14.04.
Default TRIM enablement is currently limited to Intel and Samsung SSDs. This is due to potential compatibility issues and firmware bugs reported with other brands. It is advisable to keep TRIM disabled if the system determines it may not function correctly with your specific SSD.
Further enhancements can be discovered within the system. For instance, the switching process between dedicated and integrated graphics on laptops utilizing NVIDIA Optimus technology is reported to be more reliable, though this hasn’t been independently verified.
Improvements in laptop battery longevity have also been noted.
Additional System Updates
- Enhanced graphics switching for NVIDIA Optimus laptops.
- Reported gains in laptop battery life.
- TRIM enabled by default for Intel and Samsung SSDs.
These changes contribute to a more refined user experience in Ubuntu 14.04.