Canonical, the driving force behind the renowned Ubuntu Linux distribution, is taking decisive steps to fortify support for Snaps, self-contained application packages that have long been perceived as a solution to dependency complexities. Recent key hires, notably developer Zygmunt Krynicki, signal a shift towards a more expansive, cross-distribution approach.
A Veteran Returns: Zygmunt Krynicki’s Mission
Zygmunt Krynicki, a developer with a history at Canonical from 2012 to 2020, announced his return to the company, now in the capacity of a full-time Snap developer. His primary mandate is clear – to champion “cross-distribution support.” In a Mastodon post, Krynicki alluded to the fact that his return is not a solo venture, hinting at a collaborative effort to redefine the landscape of Snaps.
Breaking the Ubuntu Mold: A Paradigm Shift for Snaps
Addressing long-standing criticisms that Snaps are primarily tailored for Ubuntu, Krynicki is poised to challenge this perception. His early-stage strategy involves a comprehensive evaluation of Snap support across various distributions. Krynicki plans to delineate short-term and long-term improvements, coupled with internal refinements to enhance the adaptability of Snaps.
Navigating Challenges: Code Refactoring and New Ideation
Acknowledging the need for code refactoring and a potential reevaluation of older concepts hindering progress, Krynicki aims to usher in a new era for Snaps. His vision includes experimenting with innovative ideas, and striking a delicate balance between controlled and rapid development. Collaborative discussions with his team will be pivotal in charting this ambitious course.
Addressing Ubuntu-Centric Criticisms
Canonical’s strategic move to fortify Snap support beyond Ubuntu responds to persistent criticisms that Snaps are overly tied to the Ubuntu ecosystem. One notable hurdle has been the reliance on AppArmor, a default kernel extension in Ubuntu, posing compatibility challenges on non-Ubuntu distributions.
Looking Beyond: The Snap Ecosystem and Competitors
While Canonical manages the Snap Store, the rise of alternative containerized systems, such as Flatpak, has prompted other distributions to explore diverse options. Canonical’s dedication to fully containerized solutions is evident in Ubuntu Core, designed for IoT and edge computing. However, challenges like increased disk space usage and performance limitations have been associated with Snaps, particularly on desktop platforms.
Awaiting Canonical’s Insights
Adtha reached out to Canonical for additional insights into these strategic developments. As the industry watches with anticipation, the company’s response is eagerly awaited, shedding light on the future trajectory of Snap support across diverse Linux distributions.