# elementary OS

> Linux distribution

**Wikidata**: [Q1321517](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1321517)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elementary_OS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/elementary-os

## Summary
elementary OS is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, known for its clean, macOS-inspired user interface and focus on simplicity. It was first released in 2011 and is developed by elementary LLC, featuring its own Pantheon desktop environment.

## Key Facts
- Founded by Danielle Foré and first released on March 31, 2011
- Based on Ubuntu, using the GNOME desktop environment with its custom Pantheon shell
- Licensed under GNU General Public License and GNU Lesser General Public License
- Written primarily in Vala programming language
- Uses GTK as its GUI toolkit/framework
- Package management supports dpkg and Flatpak
- Official website: https://elementary.io/ (available in multiple languages)
- Has its own app store and development framework

## FAQs
### Q: What is elementary OS based on?
A: elementary OS is based on Ubuntu, using the Linux kernel and many core GNU components, with its own custom Pantheon desktop environment built on top of GNOME.

### Q: Is elementary OS free to use?
A: Yes, elementary OS is free and open-source software licensed under the GNU General Public License and GNU Lesser General Public License, though the developers accept optional payments.

### Q: What makes elementary OS different from other Linux distributions?
A: elementary OS distinguishes itself through its macOS-inspired design aesthetic, strict Human Interface Guidelines for app developers, and focus on providing a cohesive, user-friendly experience out of the box.

## Why It Matters
elementary OS represents an important effort to make Linux accessible to everyday users by providing a polished, consistent desktop experience that rivals proprietary operating systems. Its emphasis on design consistency, intuitive user interface, and strict app development guidelines has influenced the broader Linux desktop ecosystem. By creating a distribution that looks and feels professional while maintaining the benefits of open-source software, elementary OS has helped bridge the gap between technical Linux users and mainstream consumers who might otherwise choose Windows or macOS. The project has also contributed significantly to the Linux app ecosystem through its development framework and app store model.

## Notable For
- Clean, macOS-inspired user interface design that emphasizes simplicity and consistency
- Strict Human Interface Guidelines that ensure all apps follow the same design patterns
- Custom Pantheon desktop environment that provides a unique user experience
- Built-in app store with curated applications that meet quality standards
- Focus on privacy and security with minimal data collection by default

## Body
### Development and History
elementary OS was founded by Danielle Foré and first released on March 31, 2011, with the initial version codenamed "Jupiter." The project has since released several major versions: Luna (0.2), Freya (0.3), Loki (0.4), Juno (5.0), and Hera (5.1). Each release has brought improvements to the desktop environment, applications, and overall user experience.

### Technical Architecture
The distribution uses Ubuntu as its base, providing access to Debian's extensive package repositories while maintaining its own curated software selection. It features the Pantheon desktop environment, which is built using Vala programming language and GTK toolkit. The system includes its own set of default applications designed to work seamlessly together.

### Design Philosophy
elementary OS follows a strict design philosophy centered around simplicity, consistency, and user experience. The developers enforce Human Interface Guidelines that all third-party applications must follow to be included in the official app store. This approach ensures a cohesive look and feel across all applications.

### Applications and Ecosystem
The distribution comes with a suite of custom-built applications including Files (file manager), Terminal, AppCenter (software center), and various productivity tools. The AppCenter serves as both a software repository and a platform for developers to distribute their applications, with a focus on quality and adherence to design guidelines.

### Community and Support
elementary OS maintains an active community through various channels including IRC, Reddit (r/elementaryos), and social media platforms. The project provides official documentation, a help center, and community forums for user support. Development is primarily conducted through GitHub, with the source code available for public contribution.

## Schema Markup
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## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/elementary/os)
2. [Source](http://blog.elementary.io/post/134884577281/freya-032-released)
3. [Loki 0.4 Stable Release!](http://blog.elementary.io/post/147637979911/loki-04-stable-release)
4. [2017](https://medium.com/elementaryos/new-release-elementary-os-loki-0-4-1-2a756549ee76)
5. [2018](https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-5-juno-is-here/)
6. [2019](https://blog.elementary.io/introducing-elementary-os-5-1-hera/)
7. [2020](https://blog.elementary.io/5.1.2-hera-download/)
8. [2020](https://blog.elementary.io/hera-updates-for-april-2020/)
9. [2020](https://blog.elementary.io/hera-updates-for-may-2020/)
10. [2020](https://blog.elementary.io/updates-for-june-2020/)
11. [Source](https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-6-odin-released/)
12. [elementary OS 6.1 Available Now. 2021](https://blog.elementary.io/elementary-os-6-1-available-now/)
13. [elementary OS 7 Available Now. 2023](https://blog.elementary.io/os-7-available-now/)
14. [elementary OS 7 Available Now. 2023](https://blog.elementary.io/os-7-1-available-now/)
15. [elementary OS 8 Available Now. 2024](https://blog.elementary.io/os-8-available-now/)
16. [elementary OS 8.0.1 Available Now. 2025](https://blog.elementary.io/os-8-0-1-available-now/)
17. [elementary OS 8.0.2 Available Now. 2025](https://blog.elementary.io/os-8-0-2-available-now/)
18. [elementary OS 8.1 Available Now. 2025](https://blog.elementary.io/os-8-1-available-now/)
19. [2026](https://blog.elementary.io/os-8-1-1-available-now/)
20. [Source](https://elementary.io/open-source)
21. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
22. [Source](http://elementaryos.org/support/live)
23. Quora
24. [Source](https://elementary.io/)
25. [Source](https://github.com/elementary)
26. [Source](https://elementary.io/support)
27. [Source](https://golden.com/wiki/Elementary_OS-B4ZE39)
28. YouTube API