Fedora releases usually generate more yawns than a Ben Affleck movie for me but this time, they've gone the extra mile. I placed Fedora at number 7 in my 10 Best Linux Distributions post but now that I've seen Fedora 10, I may have to reorder the list and place Fedora at number 5 or 6.
Is this release really that good? Yes, it is.
With an improved boot process, much needed printing enhancements, and built-in virtualization; Fedora 10 is worth a serious look.
Its full list of new and improved features are:
1) Faster Boot Process
2) New Artwork and Themes
3) Faster and Better Printing
4) Better WebCam Support
5) Virtualization
6) Remix Capability (Roll Your Own Distro)
7) Fedora Ambassadors
8) An Intelligent Packaging System Interface (PackageKit)
9) Fedora Community
10) Fedora Spins
Ok, I think they're grasping a bit with some of those to get to 10 new and improved features but I'll allow it since Fedora 10 impressed me as much has it did.
But, I won't let them get away with "prettying" features like new artwork and themes. That has nothing to do with functionality, stability, or usability. As far as I'm concerned, that stuff is a grand waste of time for a team bent on improving the operating system.
Come on guys, focus here. You're trying to compete with the likes of Windows, Mac, and the other Linux distributions. You're on the right track with improved support for WebCams, video cards, and making software management easier and more intelligent--keep your eyes on the goal of making those kinds of improvements.
Fedora 10 is worth your time if you're looking for a nice new Desktop OS though, so keep it on your radar. Try it out and let me know what you think of it. Also let me know if it's worthy of a higher position in my 10 Best Linux Distributions list.