Blu Linux

Blu Linux is an open source, simple, stable distribution of Linux based on the world's most popular free operating system, Ubuntu, and built around the traditional GNOME Flashback desktop environment.

Availability, supported platforms and boot options

The distribution is available for download as two Live DVD ISO images, which are designed to support both 64-bit (amd64) and 32-bit (i386) hardware platforms. They can be burned onto DVD discs or written to USB thumb drives of 4GB or higher capacity.

From the boot prompt, users can start the operating system in live mode using the first entry or the second one if they encounter graphical issues with the default settings. In addition, you can start an existing OS that is installed on the local disk drive, run a memory diagnostic test, as well as to directly install the distro (not recommended).

Modern desktop with Mac-like dock and powerful applications

Unfortunately, when using the live mode, users will be drop to a login prompt. Typing in the 'password' word in the password field and hitting the Enter key will give them access to the desktop environment, which uses a bottom dock (application launcher) and a hidden top panel for accessing the system tray functions.

Default applications include the Chromium web browser, Nautilus (Files) file manager, Pithos Pandora radio client for the GNOME desktop environment, LibreOffice office suite, GNOME Terminal terminal emulator, as well as the powerful and futuristic Synapse semantic launcher, which allows users to find files (documents, images, videos), search the Internet, launch applications, and manage system functions in a unique way.

Bottom line

Summing up, Blu Linux is a really great operating system that uses a superb and tweaked GNOME graphical session, beautified by the Moka themes, on top of a stable and reliable Ubuntu LTS (Long Term Support) base.

What is new in this release:

• Blu 1.0 dubbed "Apple Thrillhouse" was released on May 1st that year. It is based on Ubuntu 14.04.