The fourth alpha version of the next Ubuntu 8.10 (code Ibex Intrepid), which is scheduled for late October this year, was made available a few minutes ago and, as usual, we intend to keep you updated with the latest changes in the Ubuntu 8.10 development. Compared with the third alpha, which you have the Nautilus file manager (with tabs), this version comes with the old man-Murrine (white) theme, new features and a lot of bugfixes. First, take a look at the applications included:

• Kernel 2.6.26-5 (based on the Linux kernel 2.6.26.2)• X. Org Server 1.5• Mozilla Firefox 3.0.1• OpenOffice.org 2.4.1• The GIMP 2.4.6• F-Spot 0.4.4• pidgin 2.4.3• Brasero 0.8.0• Transmission 1.22• Rhythmbox 0.11.6• Ekiga 2.0.12• Evolution 2.23.6• Nautilus 2.23.6.1• Vinagre 2.23.4

For the Intrepid Ibex, the development team will establish an office incredible, with amazing performances, that will work on most any computer (whether a high-end workstation or an old and dusty Pentium III machine). Another major feature planned for Ubuntu 8.10 is the ability to be connected to the Internet (wireless), wherever you go: "We want you to be able to move from office to train, and the house, staying connected all the way, "said Mark Shuttleworth.

With Alpha 4, the development team introduced Private directory encryption, which allows any user to encrypt one or several files containing sensitive data. One session guest (a password less user account with limited privileges) can be launched from the GNOME User Switching Applet ideal if you want to let someone for a short period of time surfing the Internet, chat with friends or verify his / her e-mail your personal computer or laptop. In addition, Ubuntu 8.10 Alpha 4 offers an improved version of the tool Network Manager, which lets you manage connections 3G (GSM / CDMA), PPP and PPPoE connections, roads, a static IP address and Multiple configurations of active devices. Last but not least, Vinagre work is new in this version. Here is a screenshot tour of this fourth alpha release of Ubuntu 8.10: