Exploring openEuler 24.03 LTS: A Comprehensive Look at the New Open-Source Distro

openEuler 24.03 LTS has been released, offering significant updates and a focus on long-term support. This Linux distribution, backed by industry giants such as Huawei, Baidu, and Tencent, aims to provide a stable and secure platform for various use cases, including servers, edge computing, AI, and embedded systems.

This release introduces several key features designed to enhance user experience and system functionality. One of the standout features is the openEuler Software Center, a new addition that simplifies the process of installing and updating applications. The Software Center aims to make the distribution more accessible to users who may not be as comfortable with command-line operations.

Another notable addition is EulerCopilot, an AI-powered chatbot. This tool assists with code generation, problem analysis, and system maintenance, providing users with a more intuitive and efficient way to manage their systems. The AI assistant draws inspiration from Microsoft's Copilot, though it is specifically tailored to the openEuler environment.

openEuler 24.03 LTS supports a wide range of CPU architectures, including x86, ARM, SW64, and RISC-V. This extensive hardware compatibility makes it a versatile choice for various deployment scenarios. The distribution is powered by the Linux kernel 6.6, ensuring up-to-date security and performance features. It also offers long-term support for four years, making it a reliable option for enterprise use.

Installation options for openEuler 24.03 LTS are flexible, catering to different user needs. The distribution provides several ISO variations, including a standard ISO (approximately 3.9 GB), a network install ISO (896 MB), and an extensive offline ISO (around 21.2 GB). The Anaconda installer, commonly used by Fedora, is employed for the installation process, providing a familiar and user-friendly experience.

Upon installation, users can choose from various desktop environments, including UKUI, GNOME, Deepin, and XFCE. Each environment offers a different set of core applications and utilities. For instance, the UKUI desktop environment includes the Peony file manager, Shotwell image viewer, Firefox ESR, Pluma text editor, and media players such as mpv and those from Ubuntu Kylin.

The distribution's package management is handled by DNF, similar to Fedora, allowing users to install and update packages efficiently. This familiarity can be beneficial for users transitioning from other DNF-based distributions. The ability to select specific software packages during installation, such as container management tools and development tools, allows users to tailor the system to their specific needs.

The release also highlights openEuler's commitment to cloud and AI deployment, making it an attractive option for organizations looking to leverage these technologies. With features like container management and AI tools, openEuler aims to position itself as a competitive option in the open-source ecosystem.

Overall, openEuler 24.03 LTS presents a solid option for users seeking a reliable, versatile, and feature-rich Linux distribution. Its focus on long-term support, extensive hardware compatibility, and innovative features like EulerCopilot and the openEuler Software Center make it a noteworthy release in the open-source community.