Zorin OS 18 has officially arrived with a major redesign, improved performance, and deep Windows integration, positioning itself as the most refined alternative for millions of PCs left behind after Windows 10’s end of life.
Zorin Group has released Zorin OS 18, a long-term support (LTS) version backed through June 2029, marking one of the distro’s most significant updates to date. The release aligns with Microsoft ending support for Windows 10, leaving around 240 million older PCs without upgrade paths to Windows 11.
Zorin OS 18 introduces a complete visual refresh, featuring a floating rounded panel, a lighter and more ergonomic color palette, and two new accent options — Yellow and Brown. Core applications like Files, Settings, Calendar, Camera, and Evolution Mail have received design consistency updates for easier navigation and a unified look.
A new advanced window tiling system simplifies multitasking with drag-and-drop layouts and customizable configurations. The integrated Web Apps tool lets users turn any site — including Microsoft 365, Google Docs, and Adobe Photoshop — into a desktop-like application. Seamless OneDrive support now allows direct file management through the Files sidebar, easing the transition for users moving from Windows.
To further support migration, Zorin OS expands its Windows app detection and alternative suggestion system, now covering over 170 popular programs. When users try to run a Windows installer, Zorin offers tailored guidance or native equivalents, reinforcing its goal of smooth onboarding for Windows converts.
Zorin OS 18 also enhances system productivity and performance. It ships with WINE 10 for broader Windows software compatibility, PipeWire as the default audio backend for reduced latency, and “Search Everywhere” in the Files app for global content discovery. The release includes new RDP remote login, multi-monitor support, and improved touch interaction.
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Zorin OS 18 Pro and Education editions expand with several new apps. Pro adds Deskflow for multi-device control, Warp for secure file transfers, Valot for time tracking, and Easy Effects for advanced audio management. The Education edition includes Gradebook, Spedread, and TurboWarp, a Scratch-based programming environment optimized for schools.
With hundreds of refinements and broader hardware support, Zorin OS 18 continues the project’s 17-year mission to combine powerful Linux technology with an accessible, polished experience. It is now available for download, offering a modern alternative for users keeping their existing hardware alive post-Windows 10.
