Linux gets a taste of Windows and Mac

KDE is one of the major desktop user interfaces for Linux, though it works on some other operating systems as well. Like its top rival, Gnome, its software components range from low-level, such as buttons and a dropdown menu, to higher-level software such as file browsers, games and a console for those who want a command-line interface. KDE handles many basic user interface tasks such as managing windows on the screen and letting users launch programs and switch between them.

This shot shows several new features in KDE 4.0, which was released on Friday 11 January. Among them are the Kickoff menu at lower left, which provides quick access to favourite applications, the new Dolphin file manager at upper left, and the new System Settings interface toward the right.