System76 unveils COSMIC Alpha 2 with enhanced file manager, improved settings, and more

System76 has introduced COSMIC Alpha 2, the latest version of its COSMIC desktop environment designed for the Pop!_OS 24.04 Linux distribution. This release, built using Rust, includes an improved settings app with new Bluetooth settings, sound, network, among others, as well as new window management settings like "Focus follows cursor" and "Cursor follows focus."

COSMIC Files, the file manager, now features a Gallery option for viewing images, enhanced appearance settings, and an improved Search bar. Users can create folders, sort files, and access recently used files. The file manager also supports file compression, extraction, and network drive connections. Additional updates include a complete File menu, better sidebar organization, and new keyboard shortcuts.

The update brings a robust theming system, customizable workspaces, and an integrated tiling system. Infrastructure improvements include better screen reader support and expanded settings pages. Other notable features include a “Scale all X11 Applications” option, battery charge thresholds for compatible devices, and added language support in the COSMIC Greeter.