Canonical resumes development of Ubuntu Core Desktop

Canonical has officially resumed development of Ubuntu Core Desktop, an immutable Linux operating system based on the Snap packaging format. The project aims to eventually become the default Ubuntu Desktop experience by fundamentally changing the system architecture.

Unlike traditional installations, Ubuntu Core Desktop utilizes Snap packages for nearly all system components, including the kernel, bootloader, desktop environment, and background services. This modular approach allows components to be updated independently, making the system harder to break and easier to recover.

Following a 2023 developer preview that fell short of its goals, Canonical has assembled a new cross-functional team to refine the project. The renewed strategy focuses on separating system elements into individual components with clearly defined interfaces rather than bundling them into a single base Snap. Canonical has identified three primary target use cases for the platform: browser-centric computers, developer workstations, and gaming machines.