Linux in 2023: What to Expect from the Open Source OS
Linux is an open source operating system that powers millions of devices around the world, from servers and supercomputers to smartphones and smartwatches. Linux is also a popular choice for desktop users who value freedom, security, and customization. But what can we expect from Linux in 2023? Here are some of the trends and developments that may shape the future of Linux in the new year.
- More Linux distros for beginners and advanced users. Linux distros are variations of Linux that cater to different needs and preferences. In 2023, we may see more Linux distros that offer stability, security, performance, and ease of use for both new and experienced Linux users. For instance, Nitrux is a Ubuntu-based distro that uses AppImages to simplify software installation and sandboxing. XeroLinux is an Arch-based distro that provides a user-friendly and eye-candy desktop experience. Crystal Linux is another Arch-based distro that aims to combine modern Linux technologies with an easy-to-use interface. TUXEDO OS is a Ubuntu-based distro from a Linux hardware manufacturer that features a customized KDE Plasma desktop and tools to fine-tune your hardware.
- More Linux adoption on the desktop and mobile markets. Linux may not have a large market share on the desktop and mobile markets compared to Windows and macOS, but it may gain more traction in 2023 thanks to several factors. One of them is cost, as some people may prefer to stick with their older machines and install Linux instead of buying new ones with expensive licenses. Another factor is privacy, as some people may opt for Linux over Windows or macOS due to their concerns over data collection and tracking. A third factor is innovation, as some people may be attracted by the new features and improvements that Linux offers, such as Wayland, PipeWire, Btrfs, ZFS, systemd-homed, Flatpak, Snap, AppImage, etc.
- More Linux support from hardware and software vendors. Linux may also benefit from more support from hardware and software vendors in 2023. On the hardware side, we may see more devices that come pre-installed with Linux or are certified to run Linux smoothly. For example, Lenovo has expanded its range of ThinkPad laptops that ship with Ubuntu or Fedora. Dell has also updated its XPS 13 Developer Edition laptop that comes with Ubuntu. System76 has launched its Framework laptop that allows users to customize their hardware and choose their preferred Linux distro. On the software side, we may see more applications that are compatible with Linux or are ported to Linux natively. For example, Microsoft has released Edge browser and Teams app for Linux. Adobe has announced its plans to bring Photoshop and Illustrator to Linux via the web. Valve has launched Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device that runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system.
- More Linux involvement in emerging technologies and fields. Linux may also play a bigger role in emerging technologies and fields in 2023. For example, Linux may be used to power artificial intelligence (AI) systems and applications, such as chatbots, voice assistants, image recognition, natural language processing, etc. Linux may also be used to support cloud computing and edge computing platforms and services, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Microsoft Azure, etc. Linux may also be used to enable Internet of Things (IoT) devices and networks, such as smart home appliances, wearable gadgets, industrial sensors, etc.
Linux may have a bright future in 2023 and beyond thanks to its versatility, reliability, security, and innovation. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, you may find a Linux distro that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you are a desktop or a mobile user, you may find a device that runs Linux smoothly and offers you more control and privacy. Whether you are interested in AI or IoT, you may find a platform or a service that uses Linux as its backbone and offers you more functionality and efficiency.