in night builds Ubuntu Desktop 21.10 started Testing new installer , implemented in the form of a superstructure over the low-level installer curtin , which is already used in the Subiquity installer used By default, Ubuntu Server. The new installer for Ubuntu Desktop is written in the DART language and uses Flutter framework to build a user interface.
The design of the new installer is designed taking into account the modern style of the Ubuntu desktop and is designed to provide a single installation process for the entire Ubuntu product line. Three modes are proposed: “REPAIR Installation” to reinstall all the packets available in the system without changing the settings, “Try Ubuntu” to read the distribution in the Live mode and “Install Ubuntu” to set the distribution to disk.
From the new features, it is allocated to choose between dark and light design topics, support for the mode of Intel RST (Rapid Storage Technology) Installation in parallel with Windows and the new interface for breaking disk partitions. Available installation options are as follows to the selection between the normal and minimum set of installed packages. Of the not yet implemented functions, the sections encryption and the selection of the time zone are noted.
Previously proposed Ubiquity installer was designed in 2006 and the last few years does not develop. In the server edition of Ubuntu, starting from release 18.04, the > subiquity is supplied , which also uses the Curtin component to implement the disk breakdown functions, load package and installation Based on a given configuration. Ubiquity and Subiquity written in Python language.
The main reason for the development of a new installer is the desire to simplify support by using a shared low-level basis and unify the installation interface for server and desktop systems. Currently, the presence of two different installers leads to additional labor costs and creates confusion from users.