Zorin OS, the beginner friendly Linux Distribution for users switching from Windows, released new 17.3 version on March 26.
The new Zorin OS is still based on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS with official support until 2027. It features Kernel 6.8 and a customized GNOME Desktop (GNOME 43) with extensions for the Windows style panel (task-bar) and start menu.
Zorin OS 17.3
Due to Mozilla’s policy change, Zorin OS now switches to Brave for its default web browser application.
For users upgrading from old OS release, Firefox is still there, while Brave browser can be installed from the Software app (through the official apt repository). And, for new users who want to switch back Firefox, it’s also available in the Software app via both Flatpak and Deb (APT) package formats.
Besides the browser change, the new OS release updated “Zorin Connect”, the KDE Connect/GSConnect fork project to make communication between your PC/laptop and mobile phones.
It updated the Android app interface and enhanced the “Remote input” functionality with more features, such as middle-click, compose & send text, and a gyroscope mouse option. There are as well ability to share web links to disconnected computers, different home screen widgets for different computers, send album art for playing media from phone to computer, and more.
Other changes in Zorin OS 17.3 include:
- Option to add on-screen keyboard toggle button to panel.
- NVIDIA 570 driver in the .iso image.
- More Windows apps in built-in database to detect the installer files.
- Updated apps and more, see release note for more.
How to Get Zorin OS 17.3
Zorin OS 17 provides Pro edition (cost $47.99), Core, Education editions, as well as Lite with XFCE Desktop for old computers, which are available to download at the link below:
And, the minimum hardware requirements include: 64-bit AMD/Intel dual-core processors (1 GHz+), 1.5 GB memory, 15 GB storage and 1024×768 display. For other platforms, see the official website.
