As Ubuntu tries to increase its reach, and manage all the branches that are springing forth from it, the next development codename “Gutsy Gibbon” seems to be perfect. Mark Shuttleworth declared as much in announcing Gutsy Gibbon to be the chosen name for the developmental release that is expected to be released in October 18, 2007 (so this will be Ubuntu 7.10).
Gibbons are small apes found in South East Asia
Highlights from the announcement:
- The Gibbon defeated the “Glossy Gnu” to the finish
- This next version will also feature a brand new ultra-free, no-nonfree flavor of Ubuntu for the purists
- Glossiness in the form of Beryl/Compiz enabled by default might hit the Gibbon
- Any “monkey” should be able to install Gibbon - with new improvements to the installer to allow network-managed upgrades
- Agility of deployment, together with integrated management will be a focus for the Ubuntu server team - leading to leaner, meaner and faster server version of Ubuntu
- GNOME 2.20.0 will definitely be in Gutsy Gibbon, with GNOME 2.20.1 being a distinct possibility
You can view the Release Schedule for Gutsy Gibbon at the wiki.
Like Mark says, “Go Ape!” and celebrate the arrival of the new Gibbon. I love how he pushes the animal metaphor and displays a sense of humor in making these new release name announcements.