Endless embarked on a journey with a clear vision: to close the digital gap. In 2023, it’s shocking that billions still lack access to a computer, and nearly half the world remains offline. To tackle this mammoth challenge, we crafted our unique solution: Endless OS. Today, we’re thrilled to unveil Endless OS 5.
Why did we decide to create our own OS? In short, existing options didn’t fit the bill. Windows was pricey and not suited for affordable hardware. Android, primarily a mobile OS, wasn’t ideal for PCs. Macs were out of budget, and ChromeOS needed internet connectivity, which our target audience often lacked. Addressing the digital gap wasn’t about solving a single issue; it was about addressing a series of challenges. This meant controlling the entire tech ecosystem, leading us to embark on this ambitious project.
After evaluating all available options, we chose Linux. Historically, Linux was powerful but complex. However, we believed that if Android could simplify Linux for mobiles, we could do the same for PCs. After extensive user testing, we’ve transformed this complex system into one that’s user-friendly.
A decade of improvements culminated in the release of Endless OS 5. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a revolution. Three years of dedication have resulted in a modern, revamped Endless OS.
A Fresh Look
Endless OS now mirrors the familiarity of a smartphone interface. A decade ago, Windows was the standard. Now, smartphones dominate. Our design ethos is simple: address the problem. If that means embracing the modern design paradigm, so be it.
Interestingly, both youngsters and adults in the US have shown a fondness for Endless OS. We aimed to craft an interface that’s as appealing to tech enthusiasts as it is functional for the masses. The new Endless OS 5 boasts a mobile app grid and search bar on the desktop. We’ve introduced a split taskbar, with apps at the bottom and a system panel at the top, reminiscent of smartphones and macOS.
But the real essence of Endless OS isn’t just its sleek design. It’s the vast app ecosystem that ensures safety for kids and functions even without internet connectivity.
We envision a future where PCs revolve around native apps, offering speed, immersion, and accessibility. This vision is anchored by our App Center. With the new App Center in Endless OS 5, we’re closer to making the app-centric PC a reality.
The Core Strength
While aesthetics and a robust app store are crucial, the unseen backend changes are equally vital. Previously, Endless had over 4,000 patches on the GNOME-based Linux desktop. We’ve now reduced this to around 100, thanks to our collaboration with the GNOME design team. This synergy has made both GNOME and Endless stronger.
We’ve also integrated features like Wayland, multi-GPU support, and enhanced parental controls. As 9to5Linux aptly put it, there’s so much to explore in Endless OS, and it’s best experienced firsthand.
The Impact Beyond Sight
The ripple effect of our efforts is profound. While many of our users aren’t online, their stories of transformation are heartwarming. On our ten-year anniversary, we heard countless tales of how Endless has positively impacted lives across continents. Stories like that of William Kamkwamba, an African boy who, inspired by a book, built a windmill to combat drought in his village. Today, he uses Endless OS to educate his village’s children.
Every interaction, like the one with a game developer who installed Endless OS for his grandfather or a podcaster who discovered and praised Endless OS, reinforces our belief in our mission. We’re here to tell you: our offering is truly unique, and it’s only getting better.