GNOME 45 ditches Activities button, brings new apps, and introduces camera usage indicator

The GNOME project team has unveiled GNOME 45, a new version that emphasizes refining daily interactions, enhancing performance, and rendering a smoother and more efficient overall experience. It features subtle design modifications and functional upgrades, all aimed at refining the core desktop environment.

The new version is code-named “Rīga”, as a tribute to the organizers of this year's GUADEC conference. A key change in GNOME 45 is the transformation of the “Activities” button. Situated in the top bar's corner, this button has been replaced with a dynamic workspace indicator, moving away from its previous static label.

GNOME 45 also introduces search performance enhancements, a new camera usage indicator, and a host of new system features and enhancements. These include a keyboard backlight quick setting, a new quick settings keyboard shortcut, updated pointer visuals, and more. It also introduces a new default image viewer app and a new camera app with a modern UI.

The 45 release sees many core GNOME apps adopting new interface components. These components not only provide a fresh look but also improve performance across varying window sizes and device form factors.

Significant improvements have been made to the search function in the Files app, resulting in a notable speed boost. Now, even when searching through millions of files, results are returned in milliseconds.

Additional enhancements in GNOME 45 include improved settings, enhanced apps, and bug fixes, further contributing to the version's focus on a more efficient and smoother user experience.