Test Driving The Jaunty Jackalope -- Ubuntu 9.04

Canonical has announced the final release of Ubuntu 9.04 Desktop, Server and Netbook Remix Editions. The Test Center takes a look at the enhancements in the latest version of this popular Linux distribution.

In both native and virtual environments, Ubuntu 9.04 Desktop fared well in performance. Boot-up time to load Ubuntu running in a virtual environment on a low-end desktop with 2 GB was 45 seconds. Primate Labs' Geekbench software was used to benchmark Ubuntu running natively. Scores were on par or slightly lower than Vista and XP running on the same hardware.

Those used to navigating a Windows desktop, should have little problem adjusting to Ubuntu's GUI -- the GNOME 2.2.6 desktop environment.

Ubuntu 9.04 comes with enhanced support for higher-end graphics cards and multiple monitors. The desktop is highly customizable and has an option for Aero-like features.

Ubuntu comes preloaded with applications, all for free. A full version of OpenOffice.org is included, as well as graphics utilities such as a photo manager and image editor.

Preloaded are multimedia applications like Totem Movie Player and RhythmBox Music Player.

The Brasero Disk Player is installed with GNOME 2.26. Enhancements include audio track preview, track splitting and a Cover editor.

The installed e-mail client, Evolution, now supports integration into Microsoft's Exchange platform with support for importing .pst file and MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface), Microsoft's proprietary protocol for communication with Exchange Servers.

Although we tested the beta version prior to the final release, all documentation indicated that the .pst import function should be available. We tried to import a .pst file from Microsoft's Outlook 2003, but there was no option for .pst in Evolution in 2.26.1.

A robust calendar feature is also part of the Evolution e-mail client as is support for Palm devices.