Introduction

Ubuntu Kylin is an official flavor of the Ubuntu operating system, designed to cater specifically to Chinese users. It integrates localized features, a customized user interface, and unique applications that address the cultural and technical requirements of its target audience. Formerly known as UbuntuKylin, this distribution has evolved to become a bridge between the global open-source community and one of the world’s largest user bases. In this article, we will explore what Ubuntu Kylin is, how it works, its orientation, unique features, and some intriguing curiosities.

History and Development

Origins and Partnership

Ubuntu Kylin was born out of a strategic partnership between Canonical Ltd., the company behind Ubuntu, and the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). Launched in April 2013 as an official Ubuntu flavor, it aimed to provide a fully localized, user-friendly Linux distribution for the Chinese government and public.

Evolution Over Releases

• Ubuntu Kylin 13.04 (raring): First official release, basic Chinese input and calendar integration.
• Ubuntu Kylin 14.04 LTS (trusty): Introduction of UKUI desktop environment and advanced system utilities.
• Subsequent LTS Releases: Continuous polish of UI, performance improvements, hardware support, and preinstalled apps like youkerassistant.

Rebranding and Technological Milestones

In 2019, UbuntuKylin was rebranded to Ubuntu Kylin to align naming conventions with other Ubuntu flavors. Each Long Term Support (LTS) release has brought critical updates in kernel versions, security, and local services.

Key Features

Ubuntu Kylin offers a host of localized features and optimizations:

1. UKUI Desktop Environment

• Lightweight and Familiar: Inspired by Windows UI, with a taskbar, start menu, and system tray.
• Customization: Themes, icon packs, and wallpaper sets tailored to Chinese aesthetics.

2. Preinstalled Chinese Input Methods

• fcitx-sunpinyin: Intelligent Pinyin input with cloud suggestions.
• Rime: Flexible input method supporting multiple dialects.

3. Localized Applications

• youkerassistant: System maintenance and one-click optimization tool.
• UKUI Music, Video, and Calendar: Apps supporting Chinese festivals, lunar calendar, and popular codecs.

4. Multimedia Support

• Out-of-the-box support for MP3, MP4, AVI, and other common formats.
• Embedded codecs and player enhancements for streaming domestic content platforms.

5. Enhanced System Utilities

• Software Center: Curated Chinese software repositories.
• System Monitor: Real-time resource usage with simplified UI.
• Driver Manager: Automated detection and installation of hardware drivers common in domestic PCs.

How It Works

Ubuntu Kylin inherits the underlying architecture and package management of Ubuntu.

Architecture and Package Management

• Linux Kernel: Userland runs on a Linux kernel optimized for stability and hardware compatibility.
• APT (Advanced Package Tool): Debian-based packaging system for installing, updating, and removing software.
• Snap and Flatpak: Support for universal packages, enabling isolation and easy updates.

System Boot and Initialization

• GRUB2: Default bootloader for multi-boot environments.
• systemd: Manages services and system initialization in parallel for faster boot times.

User Interface Workflow

• Login Manager: LightDM customized with UKUI themes.
• Desktop Session: UKUI session handles window management, panel widgets, and notifications.
• Language and Locale: GNOME i18n framework ensures menus and dialogs appear in Simplified Chinese by default, with full Unicode support.

Target Audience and Orientation

Ubuntu Kylin is explicitly oriented toward Chinese users, but its appeal extends beyond national boundaries.

Primary Users

• Government Agencies: Approved for official use in ministries and public sectors.
• Educational Institutions: Widely adopted in universities and schools for teaching and research.
• Home Users: Individuals seeking a localized, reliable, and free operating system.

Secondary Users

• Developers: Who need a safe environment for testing applications destined for the Chinese market.
• Open-Source Enthusiasts: Interested in exploring domestic software ecosystems.

Unique Tools and Applications

Ubuntu Kylin distinguishes itself through several in-house developed apps:

youkerassistant

• Function: Disk cleanup, registry repair, system optimization.
• Interface: Simplified wizard for novice users.

UKUI Wizard

• Purpose: Guides first-time setup and migration from other operating systems.
• Features: Data backup, network configuration, driver installation.

UKUI Store

• Catalog: Aggregates Chinese-language software, games, and educational tools.
• Review System: Community-driven ratings and feedback.

System Requirements and Installation

Minimum Requirements

Installation Process

1. Download the ISO image from the official Ubuntu Kylin website.
2. Create a bootable USB drive using Rufus or UNetbootin.
3. Boot from USB and select “Install Ubuntu Kylin.”
4. Follow the graphical installer, choosing language, timezone, and disk partitioning.
5. Configure user account and complete installation.

Community and Support

Ubuntu Kylin benefits from both global Ubuntu communities and China-based user groups.

Official Channels

• Website: Updates, download links, and news.
• Forums: Chinese-language discussion boards for troubleshooting.
• Mailing Lists: Developer and user mailing lists moderated by MIIT contributors.

Third-Party Resources

• Blogs and tutorials on sites like OSChina and CSDN.
• Community-run user groups on social networks (WeChat, QQ).
• Video tutorials on Bilibili covering installation, customization, and advanced usage.

Curiosities

• Chinese Zodiac Wallpaper: Each release features wallpapers representing the upcoming zodiac animal.
• Lunar Calendar Integration: UKUI calendar displays lunar dates and traditional festivals.
• Mandarin Pronunciation Tutor: An educational app included in some releases to help users learn Standard Chinese pronunciation.
• Domestic Hardware Partners: Collaborations with Huawei, Lenovo, and Xiaomi to certify hardware compatibility.

Comparison with Other Ubuntu Flavors

Conclusion

Ubuntu Kylin stands out as a shining example of how open-source software can be tailored to meet the unique cultural, linguistic, and technical needs of a specific region. Its dedicated desktop environment, carefully selected applications, and strong community support provide a seamless experience for Chinese users, while maintaining full compatibility with the broader Ubuntu ecosystem. Whether you are part of a government organization, an educational institution, or simply an individual seeking a localized Linux distribution, Ubuntu Kylin offers a compelling and robust solution.

Sources:
‘https://ubuntu.com/download/kylin’
‘https://wiki.ubuntu.org.cn/UbuntuKylin’
‘https://askubuntu.com’