The GNOME project has released the first beta of GNOME 3.4, officially labelled GNOME 3.3.90 beta. This marks the development of the desktop environment moving into the home stretch and there should be no major changes from this point on because, among other things, the feature freeze was put in place a week ago.

The first beta implements a range of improvements to the core components and applications that make up the GNOME desktop. For example, the updated version of NetworkManager includes basic support for VLANs and bonded network ports. The GNOME shell and screensaver now use systemd to obtain information on active users of the system and their input devices rather than, as at present, using ConsoleKit.

The previously developed Redo function in Nautilus, the streamlined web browser, and the new virtualisation and remote desktop software, GNOME Boxes, are also part of the beta. According to the schedule, GNOME 3.4 is scheduled for release on 28 March. Before then, another beta and a release candidate will appear.

(djwm)