GNOME, the popular Linux desktop environment, announced new 46 stable release this Wednesday!

The new GNOME 46, code-name“Kathmandu”, will be default desktop for Ubuntu 24.04 and Fedora 40 planned for next month, and optional for Arch, Manjaro, etc.

The Files, aka Nautilus, in the release features new global search, that can be triggered either by Ctrl+Shift+F or top-left search icon. It supports searching multiple locations simultaneously, including locations outside user home. Other changes for ‘Files’ include:

• New processing indicator in bottom of sidebar.
• Faster switching between list and grid view.
• Search file preferences.
• Detailed date and time.
• New menu option to toggle location entry.
• Starred favorites in grid view.
• Improved network discovery.

GNOME Control Center, aka Settings app, now includes “Remote Login” option through RDP protocol. In the release “Apps” panel has been redesigned to touch friendly, so there’s no longer big arrow in left pane. Other changes for GCC include:

• Rename “Privacy” to “Privacy & Security”.
• Move “Default Apps” into “Apps” settings page.
• Add “WebDAV”, remove “Last.fm” in Online Accounts.
• “Disable Touchpad While Typing” toggle option.
• Touchpad Secondary click configure option.
• New “System” tab that groups Region & Language, Date & time, Users, Remote Desktop, Secure Shell, and About together.

Other changes in GNOME 46 include:

• Use Super+Ctrl+<Number> instead of Super+<Number> shortcuts for launching favorite apps.
• Enable tap-to-click out-of-the-box.
• Experimental variable refresh rates (VRR) support.

For more about GNOME 46, see the official release note.