Ubuntu 10.04 beta 1 released

Ubuntu, 10.04 beta 1 has been publicly released, based on the Debian GNU/Linux distribution.  This beta comes packed with a variety of updates, including an updated Linux kernel 2.6.32, new skins, features and much more.

Ubuntu 10.04 beta 1 is loaded with updates and new features like GNOME 2.3, which gives developers and users ultimate control over their desktop, software and data.  Mozilla also has been updated with the new default search engine set to Yahoo! - although users can set their home page to Yahoo! or Google, depending on their settings.

KDE SC 4.4 will be featured in the latest beta, with an assortment of applications from development, games, multimedia, office, utilities and many more.  Likewise-open received a major update, for Active Directory authentication and server support for Linux.  This package will support Ubuntu 8.04 LTS and Ubuntu 9.10.
A new default open-source driver for nVidia hardware, Nouveau, will provide users with kernel mode detection, providing them with resolution detection and provides hardware accelerated 2D functionality.
Ubuntu 10.04 just got more social, announcing a brand new built-in integration with Twitter, identi.ca, Facebook, and other social networks, right from your MeMenu panel.  This integration is built off from the Gwibber project, which has a new backend, for greater reliability, and multi-column view, for following multiple feeds at once.

This release also provides quick boot times, and faster resumes from suspended mode, including all new changes to the look and feel of the boot process.  Not only the boot process got a new look, but Ubuntu includes two new themes, Ambiance and Radiance, packed with new wallpapers and icons.

refer:neowin