In this post, we will discover together the new features as well as enhancements of the new version of ubuntu, ubuntu 9.10!! We might not cover all new features, but at least it will show you  what ubuntu has to offer in this version!!

This review is pointing out the main features that I see are more appealing for the end user. The arrangement is not intended!

1. Faster startup

Canonical aims to deliver 10-second startups for the Ubuntu 10.04 release, which is due in 2010. In this version, they have already taken some important steps toward achieving this goal in which allows users to get to their desktop faster after booting. Tests also show that it can now boot in mere seconds on a good computer with a solid hard drive!

2. Firefox 3.5 as default.

Ubuntu 9.10 includes Mozilla Firefox 3.5 by default for faster and safer browsing. There is no need to update it, it is already there.

3. GNOME 2.28.1

Ubuntu 9.10 comes with the latest GNOME 2.28 .1 desktop environment as default introducing a number of great new features including the followings:

• Empathy has replaced Pidgin as the default instant messaging client. It might not be a wise move for pidgin fans, but empathy comes with web cam support, a feature that has always put this IM client over pidgin although it isn't quite as mature as Pidgin when it comes to themes and protocol support.

• Rhythmbox 12.5
  Rhythmbox remains the default music player in Ubuntu - and rightly so! It's cleanly designed and lightweight. When you explore it, you will notice some new enhancements like replacing Amazon by discogs.com and MusicBrainz on the Cover Art Search.

4. Integration to EX4 and Grub2

This version will move to the EXT4 file system as default.

“This may not sound very interesting but Ext4 gibes you a performance – as well as security – boost. It'll even support that spare 1 Exbibyte drive you may have lying around...”

Also, Grub 2 is now used for your boot menu. This is a total rewrite of GRUB bringing with it better performance, features and even a auto-cleaner for dead entries.

Be careful, the existing systems will not be upgraded to GRUB 2 at this time as automatically reinstalling the boot loader is an inherently risky operation.

5. New Themes

Regarding the artwork, ubuntu 9.10 comes with many new enhancements. The first thing you will notice is the new Ubuntu splash screen and login screen(GDM)

It also comes with 19 of new photo wallpapers: -

The Human Theme has swapped it's colours from Orange to Brown: -

And at the last but not the least, the very stylish icons to the panel:

6. Software Center

Now, software comes more handy and designed in a way that seems easier for finding, installing and managing new applications. It can be done in 3 steps only.

1. Choose the category.
2. Find the application you want.
3. Click install.

7.  Disk Utility

This utility allows monitoring, management, creation, deletion, etc of your partitions/hard drives.

8. UbuntuOne

It is now part of the Ubuntu operating system and it gives you 2 GB of online storage for free. Easily share files between your own and your friends' computers. Upgrade at low cost for more storage if you need it. And it is as described on the official website “seamless integration and synchronization between multiple machines and a convenient web interface.”

9. Easy Installation Of Fonts
Now it takes just one click to install a font in Ubuntu and there is no need to copy them to the home directory. Just by pressing one click everything works fine and there is no need to look for consultation!!

It seems that most of ubuntu users are waiting for this version hoping that it might bring them with the improvements they are looking for. You can check the official website to upgrade your previous version or even ship it to your mail if you are not in such a hurry!!