Novell Inc has released the fruits of its work on improving the Linux operating system’s graphics capabilities to its openSUSE Linux development community.
The Waltham, Massachusetts-based Linux and identity management software vendor has handed enhancements to the Xgl (X over OpenGL) graphics subsystem to the openSUSE community, as well as the accompanying Compiz compositing/window manager.
The rendering and compositing technology are designed to enable the Linux operating system to take advantage of accelerated 3D rendering hardware, specifically to boost its look and feel on the desktop.
The release of the Xgl enhancements and Compiz is the latest step Novell has taken in an attempt to improve the take-up of Linux as a desktop alternative to Microsoft Corp’s Windows. In October 2005 it launched the Better Desktop Initiative, part of the openSUSE project designed to demonstrate practical Linux usability lessons.
Novell developers are also involved in The Tango Project, attempt by Linux desktop developers and artists to improve the look and feel of open source desktops.
