Ubuntu For Free

I first installed KDE4 yesterday, and I’ve been impressed with it. Not in the ways I expected, but at the same time disappointed and frustrated in other ways I was not ready for. Ctrl-F12 fortunately doesnt require three keys on the left hand for a normal US keyboard, but instead does require both hands, almost universally. It’s interesting now, because I’m beginning to see a shift in the interfaces of operating systems. It is very apparent comparing KDE and Vista, and it’s amazing how the interfaces parallel the user base. I see this reflected in the new Ctrl-F12 desktop with the widgets, and I expect to find it as the foundation for future interfaces. I’ve seen other programs like Yahoo widgets try to do something like this, but it was more of an encumbrance with the operating system. This instead seems more naturally integrated, of course because it is part of the OS. It would still be nice to be able to use Ctrl-Alt-Del to see what I would previously expect for the “Desktop”. Another disappointment, is the missing alt+f1that I’m so used to. It makes me reluctant to use the new spectacular Kickoff menu. Also significantly lacking is the ability for me to lock my terminal. Having my personal laptop around in my office is usually ok for me, but I’d like to be able to lock it when I’m not at my desk.

My greatest pleasant surprise of installing KDE, was the improved performance. The core system seems extremely refined, fast, and immediately responsive.

Sometimes it’s so frustrating that I almost want to give up and logout and switch to the KDE 3.5 session, but instead I hop on IRC in Konversation and look for help in one of the channels. So far, it’s been an experience. Somewhat of a struggle, but I think I’ll keep trying.

I have yet to upgrade to KDE4 in Kubuntu. I have spent sime time with it in the LiveCD though. So far, it’s been an experience. I like some of the new features in Konqueror. The new Kickoff menu almost obsoletes katapult, but doesn’t quite make it. It requires the use of keystrokes with keys having a greater distance than katapult. I can usually hit alt+space on most any keyboard with one thumb, so I don’t find Kickoff as accessible as it could be. Moreover, you also have to press enter to complete the search.

It seems to me many of the most important updates are kind of behind the scenes. New API’s like Phonon will provide enhanced interoperability for the future. This generally points to the direction of KDE4 really laying an incredible foundation for forthcoming development.

I’m going to test the kubuntu package of it in an installed virtual machine. I’m not ready for any big problems with either of my workstations, so I’ll be holding off on that until i make sure most of my apps will work.

I’d also like to do it without editing my sources list.