Zorin OS also comes with new fonts and improved LibreOffice, but will that make people switch from Windows?
The Zorin Group has announced the availability of Zorin OS 16.2. The Ubuntu-based distro provides 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 computer.
Zorin Group also announced Zorin OS 16.2 in an official blog post:
Today we are excited to announce Zorin OS 16.2. It introduces enhancements that further enhance the desktop experience.
The developers claim 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, released in April 2022. Interested users can download Zorin OS from the official download page.
Zorin OS 16.2 makes it easier to access Windows apps on Linux
The major change in version 16.2 is the easier ability to run Windows applications. Although WINE has already allowed it on Linux systems for years, it can be difficult to configure for non-technical users.
Zorin OS allows users to install Windows application support with just a few clicks. It will also automatically detect when users try to download Windows installer executables and suggest native Linux apps when available. For example, if a user attempts to install the 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 unfamiliar with the command line. The ability to customize the interface to look like Windows (and Windows 11 if they’re willing to pay for the “Pro” version) is meant to make the operating system more familiar to Windows users.
Other Zorin OS Improvements in Version 16.2
Zorin OS also includes a series of other minor improvements. The new version comes with a number of open source fonts to replace the proprietary fonts used in many documents. LibreOffice has been updated to version 7.4, touting greater Microsoft Office document compatibility.
Zorin OS 16.2 pleads for the abandonment of Windows
The new version of Zorin OS is a nifty alternative to Windows that aims to be easy to use for those less familiar with Linux. With Windows 11’s increased hardware requirements amid pandemic-induced supply chain constraints, more users might have reason to ditch Windows for greener pastures.
