Since its initial launch, elementary OS 8 has received so many improvements. The latest release, elementary OS 8.0.2 (codenamed Circe), is available now, making the system more reliable and accessible than ever.
elementary OS 8 offers a thoughtful, capable, and ethical choice, replacing systems like Windows and macOS. It functions as a fast, low-maintenance platform that helps you focus on your tasks.
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A More Reliable and Capable System
The developers constantly improve the core of the system. For instance, elementary OS 8.0.2 includes the newest long-term support Hardware Enablement stack from Ubuntu 24.04.3, which brings Linux 6.14.
This newer kernel gives you improved performance, especially when you play games. Moreover, it helps certain AMD and Intel chipsets and graphics processing units (GPUs) reduce their power use.
Furthermore, the team prioritized accessibility. They fixed several issues discovered during accessibility testing within the Installer and Initial Setup.
For example, the screen reader now reads password quality feedback aloud. Also, the Installer and Initial Setup screens always appear centered on your display.
Your Data Stays Yours: Privacy and Security
elementary OS puts your privacy first, through and through. Your data belongs to you, and only you. The team does not collect sensitive personal data or make advertising deals.
In fact, the project relies on funding directly from users who pay what they want for the OS and for apps on AppCenter.
elementary OS 8 introduces a Secure Session, using Wayland, which ensures apps respect your privacy and need your consent.
When an application wants access to features—such as recording your screen, taking a screenshot, or listening to your microphone—it must ask for your explicit permission first.
You always control these permissions. You can even adjust runtime permissions later in System Settings → Applications.
The system even helps tidy up automatically. This "Housekeeping" feature keeps your device storage free and helps ensure your private data stays private.
Better Multitasking Makes Work Easier
elementary OS 8 features powerful tools to help you stay focused and productive.
- New Dock: The Dock was completely rewritten, bringing productive multitasking and window management features. If an app has multiple windows open, clicking its icon shows a window spread, so you can quickly select the right window. You can also launch pinned apps easily by using {⌘} + 1-9.
- Workspaces: Use Multitasking View to organize your tasks with Workspaces. This helps you keep your work and play separate, yet only one swipe or tap away.
- Focus Tools: Do Not Disturb stops notifications immediately, helping you tune everything else out when you need to focus. Picture-in-Picture allows you to keep tabs on one thing, like a video or a terminal process, while you work on another.
Apps You Need, Without the Clutter
elementary OS comes with a carefully selected set of apps designed for everyday needs, so you spend less time removing unnecessary "bloatware".
These apps include Web (a fast, privacy-protecting browser), Mail (which manages multiple accounts quickly), Music, Photos, and Files. The powerful Terminal even includes helpful features like browser-class tabs, paste protection, and task-completion notifications.
For even more programs, you use AppCenter. AppCenter is an open, pay-what-you-can app store that indie developers use. All apps on AppCenter are reviewed and curated by elementary to guarantee a secure, privacy-respecting experience.
Most importantly, elementary OS 8 expands your access to applications by including Flathub right out of the box. Therefore, you can access apps made for elementary OS, general Linux apps, and popular cross-platform applications all directly through AppCenter.
Download elementary OS 8.0.2
You can download elementary OS 8.0.2 right now. If you're already using the older version, simply update your system to use the latest version.
elementary OS 8.1 is due to be released before the end of the year and is expected to be a major update wrapping up all changes since OS 8.0.
