Ive predicted that 2002 will bring with it more usable brands of desktop Linux, thanks in part to KDE 3.0 and GNOME 2.0 desktop environment releases. After putting the initial beta release of KDE 3.0 through its paces, Im feeling secure with my prognostication.
Most of the differences in the feel and operation of KDE 3.0, as compared with Version 2.2.2, appear courtesy of the Qt-3.0.1 framework from which this KDE release is built.
Windows users will find the interface more familiar than in past versions, since KDE functions such as file save dialogs are now more Windows-like.
The KDE 3.0 beta also has improved IMAP handling in its messaging application, KMail, as well as support for multiple monitors.
KDE 3.0 is slated for release midway through this year, but if youd like an early look, the source code for KDE 3.0 is freely downloadable at www.kde.org.