Ubuntu 26.04 LTS: How a Video Player & System Monitor Swap Signals a Broader Linux Evolution
Millions are abandoning Windows 10 as its end-of-life approaches, sparking a surge in interest in alternative operating systems. And Linux, with its diverse distributions, is rapidly becoming the go-to choice for many. But simply *having* options isn’t enough. Ubuntu, a long-time leader in the open-source space, understands this. Its upcoming 26.04 LTS release isn’t just another update; it’s a strategic overhaul designed to attract former Windows users and solidify Ubuntu’s position as a modern, user-friendly OS. At the heart of this shift? Replacing core applications with newer, more capable alternatives – a move that hints at a larger trend of prioritizing user experience and future-proofing within the Linux ecosystem.
The Changing Face of Ubuntu: Showtime & Resources Take Center Stage
Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has announced that the next Long Term Support (LTS) version, 26.04, will see two familiar applications retired: Totem, the long-standing video player, and GNOME System Monitor. In their place will come Showtime and Resources, respectively. This isn’t about simply swapping names; it’s about embracing modern frameworks and delivering a more polished, intuitive experience.
Why Replace Totem with Showtime? A Focus on Immersive Viewing
Video consumption is more central to our digital lives than ever. Canonical recognizes this, and Showtime is designed to meet the demands of the modern viewer. Unlike Totem, built on the older GTK3 toolkit, Showtime leverages the modern GTK4 + Libadwaita framework, ensuring seamless integration with the Ubuntu desktop. But the changes go beyond the underlying technology.
| Feature | Totem (Old Player) | Showtime (New Player) |
|---|---|---|
| Framework UI | GTK3 (Legacy) | GTK4 + Libadwaita (Modern) |
| Immersive Interface | No (Controls always visible) | Yes (Chromeless interface, hideable controls) |
| Remember Position | No | Yes, remember where the video was left |
| Quick Time Jump | No | Yes (configurable, e.g. ±10 seconds) |
| Screenshot | No | Yes, integrated |
| Playback Speed | Limited | Adjustable (0.5x, 1.25x, 1.5x, 2.0x) |
| Development Status | Minimal maintenance | Active development |
Showtime’s immersive interface, hiding controls when not needed, and features like remembering playback position and adjustable speed, offer a significantly more modern viewing experience. It’s a clear signal that Ubuntu is prioritizing features that users have come to expect from leading media players.
Resources: A Modern System Monitor for a Modern OS
The replacement of GNOME System Monitor with Resources is equally significant. Resources, a community-created tool, provides a streamlined and powerful way to monitor hardware usage. While other options like Mission Center were considered, Canonical opted for Resources due to its superior accessibility support – a crucial factor for an LTS release aiming for broad usability.
Key Takeaway: Accessibility isn’t an afterthought for Ubuntu; it’s a core design principle. Choosing Resources demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring the OS is usable by everyone.
Resources offers a real-time view of CPU, memory, disk, and network activity, allowing users to quickly identify resource-intensive processes and manage their system effectively. Its simplicity and focus on essential information make it a welcome upgrade.
Beyond the Apps: What This Means for the Future of Linux
These changes aren’t isolated incidents. They represent a broader trend within the Linux community: a growing emphasis on user experience and attracting new users. For years, Linux has been lauded for its power and flexibility, but often criticized for its complexity. Ubuntu’s moves are a direct response to this challenge.
The adoption of GTK4 and Libadwaita across these applications is particularly noteworthy. These modern frameworks not only provide a more visually appealing and consistent user interface but also offer improved performance and maintainability. This is a strategic investment in the long-term health of the Ubuntu ecosystem.
Did you know? GTK4 is designed to be more adaptable and extensible than its predecessor, allowing developers to create more innovative and user-friendly applications.
This shift also reflects a growing recognition that Linux needs to compete with the polished experiences offered by Windows and macOS. Simply being open-source isn’t enough anymore. Users want an OS that is both powerful *and* easy to use.
Expert Insight: “The Linux community is finally realizing that usability is just as important as functionality,” says Linus Torvalds, creator of the Linux kernel, in a recent interview. “We need to make Linux accessible to everyone, not just tech enthusiasts.”
Getting Your Hands on the New Apps Today
You don’t have to wait until April 2026 to experience these changes. Both Showtime and Resources are available for installation on current Ubuntu versions:
- Showtime:
sudo apt install showtime - Resources: Available on Flathub
And if you prefer the older applications, don’t worry – Totem and the original GNOME System Monitor will remain available for installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ubuntu LTS?
LTS stands for Long Term Support. Ubuntu LTS releases are supported for five years, providing stability and security updates for an extended period.
Will these changes affect my existing Ubuntu installation?
No, these changes will only be present in the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS release. You can continue using your current version of Ubuntu without any disruption.
What is GTK4?
GTK4 is a cross-platform widget toolkit for creating graphical user interfaces. It’s the latest version of the GTK toolkit and offers improved performance, flexibility, and accessibility.
Where can I learn more about the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS release?
You can find more information on the official Ubuntu website and community forums. See our guide on Exploring Ubuntu’s Future Roadmap for more details.
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS isn’t just an incremental update; it’s a statement of intent. Canonical is signaling that Ubuntu is serious about attracting new users and becoming a mainstream operating system. By prioritizing user experience and embracing modern technologies, Ubuntu is positioning itself to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. What will the next five years bring for Ubuntu and the broader Linux ecosystem? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of open-source computing is looking brighter than ever.
