Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Ubuntu 25.10 Raises the Bar for RISC-V Hardware

2025-07-04

Canonical announced that Ubuntu 25.10 will raise its baseline RISC-V Application profile (RVA) from RVA20 to RVA23. This means most existing RISC-V devices won't be able to run Ubuntu 25.10, as RVA23 mandates Vector and Hypervisor extensions for compute-intensive workloads like AI/ML and cryptography. While the short-term impact is limited, this move positions Ubuntu to better leverage more powerful RISC-V hardware in the future, solidifying its position on the platform.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Tech

Microsoft's Open-Source CLI Text Editor: Edit – Lightweight, Fast, and VS Code-like

2025-06-18

Microsoft has released Edit, a lightweight, fast, and easy-to-use open-source command-line text editor. Designed with a user experience similar to VS Code, Edit aims to fill the gap in recent Windows versions which lack a built-in CLI text editor. While primarily targeted at Windows users, Edit also works on Linux and macOS. Its modeless editing, blazing-fast file opening, and minimalist feature set make it ideal for quick text edits. Though lacking advanced features like syntax highlighting, its speed and simplicity make it a compelling alternative.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Development

Linux Format Magazine's 25-Year Run Ends: A Print Media Obituary

2025-06-02

After 25 years, the UK-based Linux magazine, Linux Format, has ceased publication. The article explores the likely reasons behind its closure, pointing to the economic challenges faced by print media in the digital age. While some niche magazines have successfully transitioned to digital or employed other survival strategies, Linux Format's publisher ultimately decided to discontinue the title, even in a digital-only format. The author shares a personal anecdote about discovering Ubuntu through a Linux Format DVD and reflects on the future of print publications and the Linux magazine market.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Tech Linux Magazine Print Media Digital Transition

Firefox Finally Adds (Experimental) Web App Support

2025-03-26

After years of user requests, Firefox is finally adding experimental support for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) in its Nightly builds. Unlike Chrome, Firefox's approach aims for an app-like experience while retaining core browser features like the address bar and extensions. Users can transition any tab to web app mode, and link association will allow clicking a link to directly open the corresponding web app. While currently in early stages, this marks a significant step towards improving web app experiences in Firefox.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Development Web Apps

Privacy-Focused Orion Browser Coming to Linux

2025-03-08

Kagi, the company behind the paid, privacy-focused search engine, announced that its WebKit-based Orion browser is coming to Linux. Orion, known for its speed, low memory usage, and privacy features, is currently available on macOS and iOS and supports Chrome and Firefox extensions. While currently closed-source, Kagi is gradually open-sourcing components and aims for feature parity with the macOS version on Linux by next year. This is good news for Linux users, offering them another powerful browser choice.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Development

Mozilla's Survival Plan: Diversification or Desperation?

2025-02-23

Facing major headwinds, Mozilla is diversifying its efforts to ensure its survival and growth. President Mark Surman announced a multi-pronged strategy involving increased investment in privacy-respecting advertising, development of open-source AI features, and new fundraising initiatives. A new Leadership Council will coordinate these efforts across Mozilla's various entities. However, the announcement downplays the role of Firefox, its primary revenue generator, raising concerns about the company's priorities. While the need to secure Mozilla's future is undeniable, the reliance on AI, advertising, and increased fundraising may not be the most appealing path to long-term success.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Tech

Ubuntu Developers Migrate to Matrix for Real-time Communication

2025-02-03

The Ubuntu development team announced a move from IRC to Matrix as its primary real-time communication platform, effective March 2025. This change aims to streamline communication, prevent fragmentation, and attract newer developers. While IRC remains popular, its limited features are less appealing to newer contributors who prefer richer platforms like Matrix, offering features such as discussion history, search, and offline messaging. Many Ubuntu teams and open-source projects already use Matrix, making it a natural choice. This only affects internal developer communication; end-users are unaffected.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Development

Mozilla's Free AI Text Detector: Fakespot Deepfake Detector

2025-02-02

Mozilla's Fakespot has released a free Firefox add-on, Deepfake Detector, designed to identify AI-generated text online. This tool analyzes text snippets (32 words or more) for patterns indicative of AI authorship. Unlike many AI detectors, it requires no signup or app download; simply highlight text for instant analysis. While not foolproof, it offers a useful way to distinguish between human-written and AI-generated content, particularly for those seeking authentic human perspectives.

(www.omgubuntu.co.uk)

Tech AI detection