JingOS, the Linux distro that simulates iPadOS coming from China

A new Linux distro arrives, this time very special: JingOS is a distribution that takes all the best of iPadOS and tries to replicate it, both in fluidity and in function. The interface is inspired by the Apple tablet operating system and aims to improve the latest iPad OS.

JingOS, the Linux distro similar to iPadOS

The new GNU / Linux distribution does not abandon the Open Source philosophy, but simply changes target: JingOS wants to conquer tablets. Designed exclusively for these devices, it is based on Ubuntu and its design is not simply touch-friendly , but touch-based. The main features are inspired by Apple: the navigation bar, notifications, desktop and settings.

The distro is based on Ubuntu version 20.04, KDE 5.75 and Plasma Mobile 5.20. JingOS's goal is to take the best features of iPadOS and perfect them , providing support for all programs that run on Linux. Among the confirmed apps are Calendar, Timer, Files, Media Player and calculator.

The first version of the Linux distro for tabler will be available from January 31st, as announced by the same manufacturer. In a forum post from Jingling , the company behind JingOS, the new OS is announced for the end of the month . The operating system can also be installed and tested on x86 PCs, but without multitouch screen it will not be fully enjoyable. For now, to make the most of its features, installing JingOS is recommended for Microsoft's Surface Pro 6 and Huawei Matebook 14 .

From version 0.6, the one scheduled for the end of the month, it will also be possible to run desktop applications such as Visual Studio Code and Libre Office. Version 1.0 will arrive on June 30 instead. The distro in this case will be compatible with JingPad C1, tablet based on ARM architecture. There will also be the possibility of using trackpad gestures to improve the user experience.

Unlike JoliCloud OS (JoliOS) and Ubuntu Netbook Remix, JingOS is designed to be primarily a distro for tablets, possibly usable in laptops. The first operating systems, in fact, had only come close to touch, but had continued to follow the idea of ​​the desktop, being designed to run on laptops.

iPadOS: the Apple novelty

Announced in June 2019, iPadOS is the operating system developed exclusively for iPad devices . The latest release dates back to December, and can only be installed in devices with A8 chip (and higher) and 2GB of RAM. Starting with iOS, the OS is optimized for the display and functionality of Apple tablets. The widgets have been remodeled, while remaining modifiable in size by the user. Also changed the display of incoming calls, both from iPhone and from other apps: a small banner is shown on the top of the screen, avoiding interrupting the activity that is taking place.

On iPadOS we also find support for augmented reality. As well as iPhones, the new iPads can rely on ARKit 4 and the LiDAR scanner, which is capable of measuring the distance of objects and creating depth maps up to 5 meters away. It also improves message management: up to 9 conversations can be fixed on the screen , speeding up access to frequent contacts. The message window, located at the top of the screen, can be opened at any time without interrupting the current activity, and it is possible to interact with it by replying to conversations always in "pop up" mode.

Improvements also for the "Home" app and all the management of home automation. HomeKit accessories offer more features, and every time you add one, suggestions about accessories and scenarios that are useful for a particular time of day appear. The function for the recognition of faces on cameras and video door phones has been added : from the Photos app it is possible to tag people to be identified.

Even the interaction with Siri becomes more compact, occupying only a small part of the screen. iPadOS 14 is compatible with devices that supported version 13 , i.e. all iPadPro models, 5th, 6th and 7th generation iPads, iPad mini 4 and 5, and iPad Air 2 and 3rd generation .

The article JingOS, the Linux distro that simulates iPadOS coming from China, comes from Tech CuE .