The Zorin Group has announced the availability of Zorin OS 16.2. The Ubuntu-based distribution offers a greater ability to run Windows applications on the system.
Zorin OS Release Aims to “Elevate the Desktop”
The developers took to Twitter to announce the availability of the latest desktop.
Zorin Group also announced the Zorin OS 16.2 in an official blog post:
Today, we’re excited to announce Zorin OS 16.2. It introduces refinements that elevate the desktop experience even further.
The developers say that Zorin OS version 16 has already been downloaded over 3.5 million times since its introduction in August 2021. Zorin OS 16.2 is based on Ubuntu 22.04, which was released in April 2022. Interested users can download Zorin OS from the official download page.
Zorin OS 16.2 Eases Access to Windows Apps on Linux
The major change in version 16.2 is the easier ability to run Windows apps. While WINE has already allowed this on Linux systems for years, it can be tricky for non-technical users to set up.
Zorin OS allows users to install Windows application support with a few clicks. It will also automatically detect when users try to download Windows installer executables and suggest native Linux apps when they’re available. For example, if a user tries to install Epic Games Store or GOG Galaxy, Zorin OS will offer to install the Heroic Games Launcher.
The developers aim to make the transition from Windows to Linux easier for those who haven’t been steeped in the command line. The ability to customize the interface to resemble Windows (and Windows 11 if they’re willing to pay up for the “Pro” version) is intended to make the OS look more familiar to Windows users.
Other Zorin OS Improvements in 16.2
Zorin OS also includes a raft of other minor improvements. The new version comes with a number of open-source fonts to replace proprietary ones used in many documents. LibreOffice has been updated to version 7.4, touting greater Microsoft Office document compatibility.
Zorin OS 16.2 Makes Case for Ditching Windows
The new version of Zorin OS is a slick alternative to Windows that aims to be easy to use for those less familiar with Linux. With Windows 11’s increased hardware requirements in the midst of pandemic-induced supply chain constraints, more users might have reasons to abandon Windows for greener pastures.