Linux Lite Forums

Development => Linux Lite Software Development => Topic started by: Jerry on December 07, 2017, 05:41:31 AM

Title: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 07, 2017, 05:41:31 AM
This section will contain some of the features that will be appearing the in Linux Lite 4.x Series. We won't be giving too much away as that will spoil some of the surprises we have :)

First up - The Terminal

* We'll be switching to XFCE Terminal
* The terminal will feature Powerline, see more here - https://github.com/b-ryan/powerline-shell (https://github.com/b-ryan/powerline-shell)

This combo allows for powerful, customizable, beautiful terminals unlike anything you've seen so far.

(https://i.imgur.com/RGMq9cM.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: penglezos on December 07, 2017, 08:13:36 AM
Damn that was quick!! Thanks Jerry and the team!!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Moltke on December 07, 2017, 08:31:31 AM
Can't wait! Great work! :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: trinidad on December 07, 2017, 09:15:09 AM
That's the ticket young man!!! XFCE terminal is one of the most impressive features of XFCE. Gonna make me feel all Christmasy to see it  default in LL. Thank you very much in advance.

TC
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Scott on December 07, 2017, 11:23:13 AM
Very exciting, Fishshell and Powerline look beautiful!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TMG1961 on December 07, 2017, 11:56:54 AM
Looks like you are all excited about it.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 07, 2017, 08:06:33 PM
There will be a few bumps along the road for people who are used to the Linux cli. Example - instead of using && to join 2 or more commands together, you would use ;

eg.

Code: [Select]
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install gimp
becomes:

Code: [Select]
sudo apt-get update; sudo apt-get install gimp
Which is more in line with what programmers use, so if at some point you decide to do a little scripting, you'll already have the habit.

Sent from my Mobile phone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bluzeo on December 07, 2017, 09:19:33 PM
Hope this time no fresh installs needed..

God not dead. He roaring like an lion.

Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 07, 2017, 09:22:12 PM
Hope this time no fresh installs needed..



I haven't fresh installed since mid 2016.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on December 08, 2017, 04:38:42 PM
Hope this time no fresh installs needed..
I haven't fresh installed since mid 2016.

Hope it's not the same with your underwear! Trollolololo! ;)
*user banned*
Noooo! It's friday and almost 5pm after a week of complete work hell, I invoke my earned right to catharsis venting!
*user sent to anger management class*
Doh!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: tek10 on December 08, 2017, 07:44:45 PM
This is a good change and additions. I've always installed XFCE terminal on every Lite install. I've also played around with Fish, which was helpful in my beginning days using Linux. I'll have to check out powerline.

Looking forward to additional sneak peaks!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: cesar94 on December 08, 2017, 11:56:33 PM
Your work will be my Christmas present!!! don't give up and keep going guys!!!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: LL-user on December 09, 2017, 06:53:52 AM
There will be a few bumps along the road for people who are used to the Linux cli. Example - instead of using && to join 2 or more commands together, you would use ;

Hi Jerry,

How hard will it be to get rid of Fish and Powerline? Will it just be an "aptitude purge ...", or will it be wired deeper into the system? And won't bash be installed anymore by default then?
As nice as it looks like, in the majority of the cases I'm touching a Linux machine I won't have them installed. So I would not only have to switch back and forth while using CLI, but also maintain two sets of all my scripts (one for fish and one for bash). As it looks like sadly another thing I need to tweak after installing Linux Lite in the future before I can start working.

I know, I'm not part of the target group. Nevertheless I've Linux Lite running on any machine I've the freedom to do so :)
Beside my own situation, I also wonder how it actually will impact Windows users switching to Linux. So most of the commands they will find online joining 2 or more commands together will probably not work. And if they decide to move on from Linux Lite they will most probably run into the mentioned "few bumps along the road", just in the other direction.
As pointed out by quite a few, the beauty of LL is not having all the bells & whistles and providing newbies with simple GUIs instead of living on the command line. Therefore and for the reasons above I wonder whether it's worth the effort to be honest.
Maybe there is a chance to activate/deactivate it via Lite Tweaks?
Just my 2c and some food for thoughts...

As always, thanks for your huge efforts and this outstanding distro! :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 09, 2017, 07:10:03 AM
We'd like to keep new users out of the Terminal as much as possible. If they do have to venture into it, I'd like it to not appear intimidating - almost gui-like. Powerline helps us do that. Fish is a great asset to new Linux folk too by remembering previous commands. Our focus is on new people to Linux as mentioned in another recent thread. If you don't want to use Fish and or Powerline, you of course have the freedom to.

Sent from my Mobile phone using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 18, 2017, 01:28:57 AM
Upon reflection, I've dropped Fish. This is in consideration for new people to linux. I've updated the original post.
Look forward to your feedback on the new look.

(https://i.imgur.com/RGMq9cM.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: LL-user on December 18, 2017, 02:34:37 AM
Thanks Jerry for your openness and taking the time to have a second thought.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on December 18, 2017, 10:02:59 AM
Thanks Jerry for your openness and taking the time to have a second thought.

Always happy to review decisions :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on January 31, 2018, 06:29:10 AM
Hello Jerry,

will the changes to terminal happen in versions below 4.0 if Install Updates is used ?
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on January 31, 2018, 06:35:14 AM
The changes are for 4.x and up only. Once the last release in a Series has gone out, work ceases on Series 3.x and work focuses on 4.x

Sent from my Mobile phone using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on January 31, 2018, 06:46:57 AM
 :) Thanks @Jerry
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 13, 2018, 10:21:22 AM
Desktop Icons coming to 4.x (and the ability to easily enable/disable them).

(https://i.imgur.com/pM9btvF.gif)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jocklad on February 13, 2018, 10:44:15 AM
Looking good Jerry  :)


Cant wait for the Beta  ;D
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Vera on February 13, 2018, 10:52:57 AM
Excited about the desktop icons and ability to enable/disable them! This is a huge help. I especially like the idea of having the trash folder on the desktop. Great to know that I'll be able to do that via GUI in 4.0!! Very excited for 4.0.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: trinidad on February 13, 2018, 12:11:53 PM
Nice Jerry. I commented earlier about disk writer and then discovered the other day that it was already in LL. I have to explore LL more regularly. Just been really busy lately with mostly Debian stuff. Will LL 4.0 be able to go on the retpoline kernel?

TC
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Moltke on February 13, 2018, 12:37:00 PM
Nice!  ;D 
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on February 13, 2018, 01:10:22 PM
@Jerry great work , it is looking very nice  :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: newtusmaximus on February 13, 2018, 02:18:20 PM
Will LL4.0 have a 32bit option?    If so, when will LL cease to support 32 bit machines,   Thanks
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: firenice03 on February 13, 2018, 07:53:51 PM
@Vera
Excited about the desktop icons and ability to enable/disable them! This is a huge help. I especially like the idea of having the trash folder on the desktop. Great to know that I'll be able to do that via GUI in 4.0!! Very excited for 4.0.
This can be done in the 3.x series..
- If you don't currently have trashcan..
Menu > Settings > Desktop
Under ICONS tab > Default Icons click check box next to Trash Can then close.


I am liking the new look thou!!!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 13, 2018, 07:59:57 PM
@Vera
Excited about the desktop icons and ability to enable/disable them! This is a huge help. I especially like the idea of having the trash folder on the desktop. Great to know that I'll be able to do that via GUI in 4.0!! Very excited for 4.0.
This can be done in the 3.x series..
- If you don't currently have trashcan..
Menu > Settings > Desktop
Under ICONS tab > Default Icons click check box next to Trash Can then close.


I am liking the new look thou!!!

There are many differences between that, and what we will be offering. eg. no Network icon, Filesystem launches the root system / not all of your hard drives.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 13, 2018, 08:01:11 PM
Will LL4.0 have a 32bit option?    If so, when will LL cease to support 32 bit machines,   Thanks

No 32bit OS from Series 3.x onwards. 32bit software support will end for various LL Series according to the dates on our Roadmap.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: firenice03 on February 13, 2018, 08:19:51 PM
This can be done in the 3.x series..
- If you don't currently have trashcan..
Menu > Settings > Desktop
Under ICONS tab > Default Icons click check box next to Trash Can then close.


I am liking the new look thou!!!

There are many differences between that, and what we will be offering. eg. no Network icon, Filesystem launches the root system / not all of your hard drives.
Sorry meaning the trashcan icon was accessible/could be added - if vera didn't have..


Since on the subject... Can the other "desktop" items i.e. Backgrounds be accessible from the New Lite-Desktop?
Background/Icons/Themes-Appearance items of similar interest...



Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 13, 2018, 08:25:17 PM
Updated names to make more familiar with our target audience:

(https://i.imgur.com/om8AEdC.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Scott on February 14, 2018, 12:55:56 AM
Lite-Desktop is nice and I *really* like those icons.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Vera on February 14, 2018, 06:04:43 AM
This can be done in the 3.x series..
- If you don't currently have trashcan..
Menu > Settings > Desktop
Under ICONS tab > Default Icons click check box next to Trash Can then close.
Thanks @firenice03  ! I tried out your suggestion and it worked perfectly! I now have a Trash Can on my LL 3.8 desktop. I'd never had to recover anything from it before so I hadn't been worried about not seeing it, but I sure was glad to empty what had become a very full trash can.

Very excited about 4.0 in general, it sounds like it'll be really interesting.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 14, 2018, 07:14:28 AM
I've applied all the theming and installed all the packages and the Desktop boots to around 350mb. Not bad for x64. The VirtualBox addons add approx. 17mb to that, so if those weren't installed it would be even less.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on February 16, 2018, 03:40:30 PM
I've applied all the theming and installed all the packages and the Desktop boots to around 350mb. Not bad for x64. The VirtualBox addons add approx. 17mb to that, so if those weren't installed it would be even less.
A back-in-time question on that. I don't have any LL 2.x mahicne left but I remember having pop up message in the top right about v-box or vbox. Was that related to VirtualBox at the time?
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on February 16, 2018, 03:46:18 PM
Desktop Icons coming to 4.x (and the ability to easily enable/disable them).
(https://i.imgur.com/pM9btvF.gif)

Will the icon set be scalable? for a potential future dpi friendly XFCE.
Also, no bottom panel whisker menu in your video clip? Please remember the no0bs! ;)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 16, 2018, 03:53:31 PM
It's a development machine. It's not fully LL featured, it's only for testing software at this stage.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: SleepyD on February 25, 2018, 09:41:07 PM
Hi Jerry.  Are you looking at UEFI compatibility with 4.0?  I hope so.  Also, is there a chance that you might bring back the Lite Control Center?  It was great.  Thanks for the great distro.   :D
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 25, 2018, 10:11:31 PM
We don't want people to accept UEFI as the norm. On the contrary, it's quite abnormal and unnecessary. Lite Control Center is long gone sorry. :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 26, 2018, 02:33:34 AM
Lite Auto Login:

(https://i.imgur.com/5SuO3rQ.gif)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bluzeo on February 26, 2018, 02:44:16 AM
Lite Auto Login:

(https://i.imgur.com/5SuO3rQ.gif)
Jerry I told Mom she won’t be changing till 2021 but you may win her to switch with this one.


God Not dead.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on February 26, 2018, 07:29:46 PM
@Jerry
I noticed from your captures that the icon set seems to be Numix?
I was on another distro and Numix has an option to customise Folder colors/shapes, would that be included if Numix is the icon set?

Also, please have the option in Setting/Appearance to have a dark theme and dark windows backgrouds instead of white/pale grey.
It's easier on the eyes... and in some aspect the electrical bill. ;) - Firefox already has a "dark theme" available too.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 26, 2018, 07:35:24 PM
@Jerry
I noticed from your captures that the icon set seems to be Numix?
I was on another distro and Numix has an option to customise Folder colors/shapes, would that be included if Numix is the icon set?

Also, please have the option in Setting/Appearance to have a dark theme and dark windows backgrouds instead of white/pale grey.
It's easier on the eyes... and in some aspect the electrical bill. ;) - Firefox already has a "dark theme" available too.
It's just a test box to test LL applications, everything else you see should be ignored. Themes haven't been chosen yet.

Sent from my Mobile phone using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on February 27, 2018, 08:59:59 AM
Will it have remaining no login ?
Or it must be login or auto-login ?
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on February 27, 2018, 07:10:34 PM
Will it have remaining no login ?
Or it must be login or auto-login ?

Sorry. I don't understand the questions.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 01, 2018, 05:49:51 AM
Lite Boot - a compromise somewhere between those who wanted progress feedback, whilst keeping the branding:

(https://i.imgur.com/ASggQri.gif)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on March 01, 2018, 10:16:15 AM
@Jerry
This is only an opinion but, progress bars that just begin again give false hope.
It goes up to 100% and you're filled with joy and eagerness to start using the computer... until you are greeted with frustrating deception seeing the bar start again. ;)
A looping animation of any kind just leaves you with the eargerness part, I think.
But if Linux Lite 4.0 goes the to the bar (with a priest and a rabbi :D ), I could try the progress bar script I made again (based on the Debian one). It was not a looping one and really acurate.

Cheers!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 01, 2018, 08:02:57 PM
@TheDead your comment suggests you're letting your emotions control you :)

(http://i.imgur.com/4rbKDHs.jpg)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on March 02, 2018, 03:22:46 PM
@TheDead your comment suggests you're letting your emotions control you :)

Hehe, I'm no Spock but I'm not Hulk either. But... I can ASCII-flip a table from time to time :
(ノ°Д°)ノ︵ ┻━┻
Aaaaah! Much Better!

I still have a few ideas about the LL4.0 boot splash. Watch the Desktop Customisation thread ;)

Cheers!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 02, 2018, 05:51:25 PM
@TheDead ideas are great, but you'll need to provide actual code to have anything considered. Cheers :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 08, 2018, 07:05:41 AM
Lite Updates Notify and Lite Widget. Lite Widget now has it's own package which makes it much easier to update. Lite Widget will be disabled by default.

(https://i.imgur.com/s89uIVS.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 08, 2018, 07:19:44 AM
Systemback is out, Timeshift is in (pending full testing).

(https://i.imgur.com/3AnDxTJ.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/1hQtsF3.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jocklad on March 08, 2018, 07:26:54 AM
Looking good Jerry.


Been using Timeshift since 3.8 beta......Never had a problem with it.  :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 09, 2018, 01:33:06 AM
Thanks @Jocklad. System Sounds and full system sound management at last are on the way too :)

(https://i.imgur.com/SGHljqY.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: ralphy on March 09, 2018, 03:23:08 AM

Great job getting 4.0 in the works so far! I recommend to reconsider the implementation for Lite Sounds though:


(https://i.imgur.com/TuR9nUM.png)


How do users know when a sound is On or OFF? Perhaps having only 3 options (either on or off) is a better way to address it. The interface should show ONE only possible action at a time and that's a way to hint users. E.g.:


If System Sound is ON then display only OFF option (Disable System Sound).
If Logon Sound is OFF then display only ON option (Enable Logon Sound).
... and so forth.


Switches could be another way to handle this... e.g.:


 (https://i.imgur.com/jrtmfw9.png)


Keep it up!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 11, 2018, 06:16:28 AM
Thanks to @whateverthing we now have a full set of Linux Lite icons representing our many applications.

In 4.x all the Lite applications will be together in 2 areas. Menu, Settings, and Settings Manager under System.

They are are also distinguishable by their dark icon backgrounds. This consistency will make it easier than ever before to find our applications.

Note: Create System report is now called Lite System Report, Login Settings is now called Lite Auto Login.

(https://i.imgur.com/pNSZVNV.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/QnPsULX.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 26, 2018, 07:29:19 AM
The re-write for the Help Manual for 4.x is well under way.

(https://i.imgur.com/yEWbOmU.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: torreydale on March 27, 2018, 08:34:12 PM
This icon theme should be very comfortable for windows users.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on March 28, 2018, 01:46:16 PM
@Jerry
I was waiting for other screenshots before bothering you in your work but... is the new icon set with black/dark-gray backgrounds/borders because 4.0 will default to a black theme?
If not, its just the design clashes with the system icons and look like it could be a display bug (tranparency problem) or wrong Dark Vs Light icon sets.

Also, I should have some time this Easter weekend to work on a few bootspalsh ideas I want to pitch to you. ;)

Cheers!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: tek10 on March 28, 2018, 09:44:17 PM
I'm liking the new Linux Lite icons! Thanks to whateverthing.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: ralphy on March 28, 2018, 09:58:56 PM
I like them too! @whateverthing did a great job.

My problem with them is the square background all around. That makes them look completely out of place with any other icon theme or even with the default icon theme (faenza up until now). Also, not everyone uses light themes. I think that with dark themes they will look not so attractive; not all dark themes are black. Would have preferred to see those same icons without the black background.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 28, 2018, 10:22:02 PM

is the new icon set with black/dark-gray backgrounds/borders because 4.0 will default to a black theme?


We needed a way for the LL apps to stand out, despite what other icon theme was in use.


Also, I should have some time this Easter weekend to work on a few bootspalsh ideas I want to pitch to you. ;)


We've already finalized our boot splash. You are more than welcome to share your work with the community. I'm sure there will be people that will want to use them :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: whateverthing on March 29, 2018, 11:55:10 AM

...

Switches could be another way to handle this... e.g.:

 (https://i.imgur.com/jrtmfw9.png)


I really like the idea of the switch indicator. It shortens and clarifies the list of options, so there don't have to be separate items for the On setting and Off setting.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 30, 2018, 03:37:39 AM
Help Manual front page gets an update.

(https://i.imgur.com/XVdGS4v.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 31, 2018, 07:34:42 AM
New Install slides:

(https://i.imgur.com/amAelJC.gif)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on March 31, 2018, 09:28:20 AM
Getting some great boot times in tests.

7 secs from Grub to desktop. I imagine I could shave another 1 - 2 seconds off this without any VirtualBox modules, and other services disabled.

(https://i.imgur.com/Qc5XJnd.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on March 31, 2018, 09:30:46 AM
Slideshow is looking good.
Boot times as always are super fast for Linux Lite :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Artim on April 01, 2018, 07:02:22 AM
I like the slideshow!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: m654321 on April 02, 2018, 11:52:56 AM
Hi Jerry.  Are you looking at UEFI compatibility with 4.0?  I hope so.  Also, is there a chance that you might bring back the Lite Control Center?  It was great.  Thanks for the great distro.   :D

@SleepyD
If you have a UEFI laptop, and you want to just install LL only, then:
- in PC settings just disable secure boot & enable CMS/BIOS
- replace the GPT drive formatting with an MBR (MSDos) formatting (using gparted during LL installation)

If you do this you wont need UEFI at all.  One of the issues with UEFI is that some firmware is not compatible with it. There are other issues too with UEFI where others, here in the forum, would be better placed to explain the ins-and-outs.

If you want to dual-boot Window OS with LL, then also follow the above suggestions so that you don't have to use UEFI/secure boot.  However if you already have Windows OS on a UEFI laptop with UEFI & secure boot enabled, you'll have to reinstall it following reformatting with MBR.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: SleepyD on April 03, 2018, 01:35:12 AM
Hi m654321.  I do not have Windows installed on my UEFI PC.  I like distro hopping.  I have 7 different Linux distros on my PC.  From what I've read, UEFI is better to deal with multiple partitions. 

I have helped some people with Windows PCs get started with Linux.  I put Linux on them because they are low powered newer PCs with Windows 10 that ran dog slow.  It runs a lot better with Linux.  I think Linux Lite is just about the perfect distro for people switching from Windows that don't know much about computers.  I don't want to have take the time to reformat the drive and then reload Windows before loading Linux.  Most Linux distros support UEFI now.  The market for Linux Lite is going to grow smaller as time goes on by not supporting UEFI PCs.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 03, 2018, 03:20:57 AM

The market for Linux Lite is going to grow smaller as time goes on by not supporting UEFI PCs.


That's not going to happen, quite the opposite and let me explain how.
1. Linux market share will steadily increase over time, and we will benefit from that, 'get our slice of the pie' so to speak.
2. Not everyone will exclude us just because we don't support UEFI. If people are determined to get away from the nightmare that is Windows, they will do it regardless. I was one of those, and hardware semantics did not get in the way of my decision.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 03, 2018, 03:22:26 AM
I like the slideshow!


@bitsnpcs @RandomBoy thanks :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 03, 2018, 03:24:43 AM

...

Switches could be another way to handle this... e.g.:

 (https://i.imgur.com/jrtmfw9.png)


I really like the idea of the switch indicator. It shortens and clarifies the list of options, so there don't have to be separate items for the On setting and Off setting.

I haven't seen that option in either Yad or Zenity and I've explained in the past to @ralphy why we will only use those (with the exception of Lite User Manager) for GUI programming. If they are in Yad or Zenity, I'd love to see a code sample.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on April 03, 2018, 10:06:39 AM
I haven't seen that option in either Yad or Zenity and I've explained in the past to @ralphy why we will only use those (with the exception of Lite User Manager) for GUI programming. If they are in Yad or Zenity, I'd love to see a code sample.

(https://preview.ibb.co/eqxqsH/Screenshot_2018_04_03_14_56_42.png)

It is offered as idea for (lots of) improvement.
I used to begin from here https://www.linux.org/threads/zenity-gui-for-shell-scripts.9802/ (https://www.linux.org/threads/zenity-gui-for-shell-scripts.9802/)
I changed the step to 1, start value to zero, end value to 1, changed --text to On Off, added an --hide-value to hide the 0,1 and number above the scale.
So it can have possible 2 values, 0 or 1 (to switch on/off value, using kb left/right arrow x1 tap in direction of wished value)
Then I just using many spaces on --text until the On/Off text fitted to the scale size, as unsure how to shrink the scale width, or to change its title bar.(edit - done)

I done it just using trial and error as not used Zenity before today.

Code without the 70+ spaces between On Off

Code: [Select]
VALUE=`zenity --scale --text="On Off" --hide-value --value="0" --min-value="0" --max-value="1" –step="1"`
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on April 03, 2018, 12:22:48 PM
(https://preview.ibb.co/nqSU2H/slider2.png)

Changed title bar of slider dialogue.
Needs to be shrink slider total size to right, and add text to left before slider of the each option name.

Code: [Select]
VALUE=`zenity --scale --title "Lite Options" --text="On Off" --hide-value --value="0" --min-value="0" --max-value="1" –step="1"`
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: ralphy on April 03, 2018, 01:30:02 PM
Code: [Select]
VALUE=`zenity --scale --title "Lite Options" --text="On Off" --hide-value --value="0" --min-value="0" --max-value="1" –step="1"`

The limitation with zenity in this case would be using multiple --scale in a single dialog. Once you try to do anything that requires the most basics in a UI dialog, zenity is out of the question. Same applies to Yad in that regard, even though Yad offers quite much more options and ways around.

While my example did not use yad or zenity (I used python), there are ways to archive similar results by using Yad buttons and pipes. We could have a dialog with three buttons and pipe clicks to execute the action and change the button labels. This is certainly doable with Yad.

@Jerry, for a pipe example, UnlockMe Icon Themes (https://github.com/ralphys/unlockme/blob/a1704e82d00419ef66ebe18b2ca25320cd7d16e5/usr/local/sbin/icon-themes-erikdubois#L51) option includes it. One can click a button to "Select All" or "Clear All" to deselect all checkboxes - it pipes the action in the yad dialog.

Unless we come to the realization that this is 2018 and embrace other programming languages, we will persist on the mistake of creating a 7 buttons dialog for 3 possible actions. This is, in my opinion, a good example of what not to do in a UI dialog.

(https://i.imgur.com/QnPsULX.png)

I can understand if I'm seen as a Linux Lite critic (I have received quite a few emails in that regard just because of my lame blog posts) - but being critical and pointing out facts shouldn't offend anyone. I'm also a Linux Lite user :)

Cheers!

Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on April 03, 2018, 01:41:55 PM
Its good to know, saves time trying more ways, I had been trial/error ways to add additional rows of sliders, and also to add, list, columns, and was not able to do this in the same dialogue.


Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on April 03, 2018, 06:44:39 PM
Heya people of the interweebs!


If we are "stuck" with the interface module for the GUI, its not the best but here's my vision :
And yeah, the black and gray background squares should have 2 rounded corner (top right, bottom left), 4 rounded corners or just be a circle, filled or out-lined. Sorry, the icons are great but the look with the square is too Windows95. :-S


Heres a Krita / imgur-powered pic I made quickly ;) :
(https://i.imgur.com/UG7odfP.png)


Cheeeeerios!
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: TheDead on April 03, 2018, 06:45:29 PM
... or to reply to myself, make it look like the Lite Software interface maybe?
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 03, 2018, 07:43:44 PM
I'll wait until after release to see what the general feedback on the Lite Sounds interface is. To date I've gotten friends and people I've installed LL for (new to Linux people, our actual target audience), and they love it's simplicity. Simplicity is so 2018.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: bitsnpcs on April 03, 2018, 08:12:18 PM
If size is wished to reduce at future times, can be reduce by -
add tick on to, by editing, enable icon
add red circle/line, or x, on to, by editing disable icon
remove text on all their buttons, add text as a mouseover info for each icon/button.
This can maybe be up to 75% smaller GUi.

It means space for 3x3 GUI, x3 button per row/x3 rows  -
enable icon |  disable icon | Test

Where Test button Launches Volume control then it doesn't need a row to itself
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: SleepyD on April 03, 2018, 11:36:01 PM
Jerry,

May I ask what is your opposition to having UEFI compatibility for Linux Lite?  Linux Lite has non free software so I know that cannot be the reason.  I'm surprised you want to limit the market for it.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 03, 2018, 11:45:03 PM
@SleepyD to be honest, I've answered that question so many times on these Forums, it's getting to the point where I'm done with the subject. There is more at stake here than limiting a market. I would gladly sacrifice popularity for ethics.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: SleepyD on April 04, 2018, 01:02:18 AM
Jerry,

I have a suggestion.  Could you pin a post at the top of the forums in regards to the UEFI issue so people don't have to scour the forum for answers?  You would just have to do it one time.  You could then paste the link for that post in  any posts regarding UEFI.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: m654321 on April 04, 2018, 03:44:04 PM
Jerry,

I have a suggestion.  Could you pin a post at the top of the forums in regards to the UEFI issue so people don't have to scour the forum for answers?  You would just have to do it one time.  You could then paste the link for that post in  any posts regarding UEFI.

Jerry, I think this is a good idea.
My reasoning for saying this is that I think many of those migrating from Windows OS to LL, don't have the insight or experience to know why UEFI technology is a backward step. I was one of these people, back in 2014, when I made the 'jump', though of course have seen the light since.  Being new to Linux, and seeing most distros adopting UEFI support, many newbies naturally assume it's the thing to do ...
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 04, 2018, 09:45:00 PM
Here you go - https://www.linuxliteos.com/forums/introductions/uefi-and-linux-lite/ (https://www.linuxliteos.com/forums/introductions/uefi-and-linux-lite/) I'm officially done with the topic of UEFI :)

Back to Sneak Peeks now.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: m654321 on April 05, 2018, 01:30:45 AM
Here you go - https://www.linuxliteos.com/forums/introductions/uefi-and-linux-lite/ (https://www.linuxliteos.com/forums/introductions/uefi-and-linux-lite/) I'm officially done with the topic of UEFI :)
Back to Sneak Peeks now.

Glad to hear it Jerry  :)
I am too!

Can't wait for LL4.0 - it looks really exciting - another 5 years of LL bliss!
Keep up the great work 8)

Cheers
Mike

PS. I've put your weblink as a URL link on my Desktop to prompt me to redirect others should they ask ...
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 05, 2018, 01:39:34 AM
Cheers Mike :)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: SleepyD on April 06, 2018, 12:08:09 AM
Thank you Jerry for the UEFI post.  I will look up what you said about the security of UEFI.  I will use Linux Lite 3.8 until it is no longer supported.  I can't see changing to MBR.  I like distro hopping.  From what I've read, it is supposed to be easier to manage multiple partitions with UEFI.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: torreydale on April 09, 2018, 11:14:41 PM
I like the proposed splash screen.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 10, 2018, 12:19:40 AM
I like the proposed splash screen.

Unfortunately, the proposed splash screen is not playing ball in several ways. We're using a oldie but a goodie, simple and will for the first time show the password box for encrypted volumes, something we haven't been able to achieve consistently to date in LL.

I've squashed many bugs in the lead up to the Beta thanks to our Test team. Spotify is now fixed. We're just waiting on Wine to create the bionic repo, it's still not ready as of today:

(https://i.imgur.com/hk784ZF.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 10, 2018, 07:29:06 AM
Better, clearer explanation of AMDGPU proprietary drivers in Series 4x.

(https://i.imgur.com/aZPyYkb.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: trinidad on April 10, 2018, 08:47:47 AM
Perhaps adding the Deb package name containing the blobs would be okay too on the info page, i/e something like: Deb package name contains all necessary firmware and is pre-installed.

Also splash I use is from wheezy, modified KDE Debiandreams. Password script works and shows fine.

TC
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 11, 2018, 12:22:54 AM
Series 4.x Artwork released: https://www.linuxliteos.com/forums/member-submitted-artwork/linux-lite-licensed-logos/
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 12, 2018, 01:16:26 AM
New Case Badge sticker design for the Shop.

(https://i.imgur.com/yOBCMmK.png)
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: m654321 on April 12, 2018, 02:24:30 AM
@Jerry
Do you sell LL 'superkey' stickers?
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: Jerry on April 12, 2018, 02:28:39 AM
We don't sorry.
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: kissbaby3 on May 04, 2018, 03:25:40 AM
@SleepyD to be honest, I've answered that question so many times on these Forums, it's getting to the point where I'm done with the subject. There is more at stake here than limiting a market. I would gladly sacrifice popularity for ethics.

i know you dont want to talk about this , but , can one disable "UEFI" so that it can be compatible with linux lite 4.0 and up ?.
i googled what a "UEFI" was , and i guess its a "Bois setting secure boot"  thing.

should i do this before LL 4,0 comes out of beta ?, i am not going to rush into that one, i can wait for a good thing . LL i s like fine wine , never rush it.
i tinkered with the Bios settings before, i am always careful and take notes of the before and after .
Title: Re: Linux Lite 4.0 - Sneak peeks
Post by: justme2 on May 04, 2018, 05:02:12 AM
@kissbaby3,
So many variations! I have a pc with no UEFI, one with UEFI and legacy both seem to auto-detected the boot device and one with both but only one can be enabled at one time. It depends on which BIOS is installed on your PC.
I must be lucky in that LL2, LL3 and LL4Beta have all installed without problem, albeit one PC had to have legacy boot enabled manually.  I do fully understand that the software needs to keep up with mass produced machines rather than a few specialities but I can see the day coming when the latest linux distros will demand similar machine specs as for win 10 and for me that will be a sad day!