Contributor spyyder

A better compilation of the hardware inside your computer/laptop. The current hardware manager is quite complicated looking and doesn't list details in a readable manner. Instead of listing generic names, it should list brand names, hardware versions, etc. On a Mac there is a very nice "About this MAC" that list specific details about the hardware in a computer with easy to understand details and actively updated changes. It also included build information that could list Ubuntu core files, version numbers, dependencies etc.

Simply said, a one stop shop, for a user to see what is in their computer and details of core software. A GUI could show a schematic diagram on how the various part of the computer are connected and work together.

This could be tied to the "hardware compatibility" idea and any incompatibility could be listed in here.

http://www.os2world.com/os2files/images/xf86cfg_gui_main.gif
http://www.linux-user.de/ausgabe/2002/08/068-answergirl/xf86cfg-1.png
http://www.zejack.com/article/barebone/shuttle/ss51g/651.gif

We have dual-core, and quad-core processors now, how much are we taking advantage of this additional power. Also we could provide better development tools to take advantage of multi-core processors.

OSS should lead the way in parallel processing, not just playing catch-up. We still don't even take advantage of the fact that most modern processors are now 32/64 hybrid. OS X can run 32/64/PPC(Rosetta) architecture all on the same box. Yes it is difficult, but a discussion should be started on what kind of work could be done in this area.


http://www.intel.com/pressroom/archive/releases/20080318corp.htm?iid=pr1_releas epri_20080318r (Cred: jespdj)

Screenshot program that can:

1) Draw Rectangular box
2) Screen shot of an individual window (or content in window)
3) Draw Custom shapes
4) Capture full motion (screencap)
etc...

Merge with a multi-image clipboard, ability to upload directly to web or transfer to other program.

Additional file formats .bmp, .jpg, .gif, (.flv, .mpg for screencap) etc...

Program should be native, not part of Compiz.

Added support for volume and brightness control on laptops and multimedia keyboards. As well as support for custom keys built-in to Ubuntu/automatically detect. Many laptops and keyboards have custom keys that don't get recognized.

Mac OSX has a very intuitive program to automate common tasks. Ubuntu should have a default automation program.

Perhaps even provide GUI's for terminal commands for batch files and processes.

We are catching up on usability in the Linux community, but we still have not reached the level of polish of Windows or Mac. Fonts, Icons, Menus, Color Schemes, Themes, Buttons, Tabs etc. are not friendly. Apple publishes a "Human Interface Guidelines" that dictate how a user should interact with a computer. Why doesn't Ubuntu get in touch with some psychologists and designers and develop a common interface approach, one that is different from Gnome or KDE, but still based on them. It would be nice for Ubuntu to have an "exclusive" font, or an "exclusive" menu system.

On the Ubuntu website as an alternative to the regular download CD, it would be great if there was a custom download option.

A new User could go on the site and pick all the software packages they would like (from a list of approved packages) then download a custom CD/DVD with all the packages of their choice on it.

I know you can do this on your own, but if I want to intall ubuntu on multipe computers I can save bandwidth and time of we had a single custom cd/dvd.

This can also be used a marketing tool for teams trying to convince their office/company/school to use Ubuntu. Just load up all the software you want, download the cd/dvd, and BOOM, custom Ubuntu on the go!

Update: Looks like another distro took cue. http://studio.suse.com/

PlayOnLinux is a WINE compatibility layer that lets you run many Windows programs over Linux. Since Wine isn't always easy to use(ex: command-line, tweaking) PlayOnLinux provides a front end for most Wine options to help you install, manage, and uninstall Windows-based games and applications.

http://www.playonlinux.com/en/

The Ubuntu site should have videos, screencaps, screenshots, demos, factsheets etc. in preparation of a new Ubuntu release. Build some hype around new released showing user what is new, and how we have improved this release. Look at all the hype that gets generated around new OS X releases. Get people interested in learning about BASIC Ubuntu features, and highlight WHATS NEW. Something as simple as a countdown clock for the next release, a press event, or even a press release.

Not all of us have time to test out each alpha/beta release and to pour over release notes to see what has changed. Lets get people excited every 6 months! Don't underestimate the power of marketing.

Calculator need more functionality particularly for conversions (weight, currency, distance, graphing etc..) Possibly even integrate with commercial calculators (TI-xx, Casio).

Deskbar applet would be more functional if it opened as a drop down menu.

See Spotlight: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Leopard_spotlight.png


Remove Web search from DeskBar, turn on tracker by default, make search functional

Ubuntu has become arguably the most popular linux distribution. I think its time for Ubuntu developers to set aside some internal resources to push Ubuntu ahead of the pack.

We should form a dedicated team responsible for the development of "nex-gen" ideas. Currently most linux distros just mimic ideas found on Mac or Windows (compiz, menubars, themes, networking, etc.). There really aren't any "innovative" idea for linux, in the strictest sense of the term. Assemble a team that is dedicated to developing NEW ideas. I realize that Ubuntu would rather go the "tried and tested" route, but I think we should leave some room open for bleeding edge innovations (some of which can be found right here on brainstorm!)

It could even be made into a contest, where people could submit their own NEW ideas. Keep the Ubuntu circle in the cutting edge. Possibily a prize, recognition, etc.

All of the bundled programs have different looks, interfaces, short-cuts, etc. As with the "Human Theme" initiative, all the bundles apps should share common interface themes. It makes it easier to navigate between apps. I know most programs are externally developed, but at least some common design principle's should be adopted/developed/maintained.

One of the interesting features on OS X are the use of visual alerts.

Ex. 1: Entering an incorrect password will cause the password box to shake instead of bringing up a dialog.


Ex. 2: Bouncing Icon in Dock to alert user that their attention is required.


Ex. 3: In Vista there is an audio alert system informing user that their attention is required

For ideas not yet being implemented, but are being consider or are in discussion.

Synaptic is supposed to be an easy way to get program installed onto Ubuntu, but it can be overwhelming to a new user (yes, imagine that). What if synaptic was as easy to use as iTunes or Tivo. I think there should be a more simple version of synaptic that remove jargon like "dependencies", and "libraries". Two modes, "easy" and "regular". Include better descriptions, pictures if possible, and links to documentation, places to find support, information about its creator, etc...

OpenSUSE has things like one-click downloads why can't synaptic be that easy (yes I know its usually one click anyway). Spruce it up with a friendly design and welcoming interface.

Fantastic article on consistent user interfaces. This really should be a blueprint on how to design the next release.

http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2008/08/12/top-10-usability-highs-of-the-mac-os

Make it easier to report a problem with Ubuntu, like a menu choice to 'quick' report. Make is easier for NEW USERS to report problems.

No more editing .conf files! Lets bring a new level of usability to Ubuntu. All configuration files should have a GUI. I know the old school developers don't want to make things easier for newbies (preserving the l33t?), but this is the direction we need ot head in.

Separate the two pieces of information. Also indicate the point in the comments when the submission was edited to reflect the changes.