Canonical this week announced the availability of Ubuntu 8.10, in both Server and Desktop editions.

"Ubuntu 8.10 Desktop Edition, code-named Intrepid Ibex, allows users to move between wired, wireless, and 3G networks, and can automatically detect many popular mobile devices," writes ChannelWeb's Kevin McLaughlin. "Creating a 'guest account' in Ubuntu 8.10 requires just a single click and speeds the process of giving access to a PC to another user without comprising the security of the data on the machine."

"Of the new stuff in Ubuntu 8.10, the most useful in my testing has been the updated version of GNOME," writes Webmonkey's Scott Gilbertson. "In addition to the tabbed file browser windows, many of the GNOME panel applets have seen some very nice updates. The Deskbar search app for instance can now perform calculator operations, search Google and even update Twitter, which has made my old solution - Gnome Do - largely unnecessary."

"Another interesting feature is the ability to easily install Intrepid Ibex on a thumb drive, for those considering making the switch, but not quite ready for a full install," writes TechSpot's Jose Vilches. "All in all, Ubuntu 8.10 is another nice incremental improvement, and its enhanced network abilities alone will make it a worthwhile upgrade to many."

More here from telecoms.com ... more here from Ars Technica ... more here from Computerworld ... more here from Intranet Journal ... more here from OSNews ... more here from jkOnTheRun ... and the press releases are here.