Welcome to the ultimate collection for Linux lovers! We’ve gathered every default Ubuntu wallpaper from the past two decades, showcasing the OS’s vibrant visual journey. Whether you’re nostalgic for classic designs or eager for the latest artwork, our curated selection has you covered.
Since 2004, 39 unique designs have graced the desktop of this popular OS. The current LTS release, Noble Numbat (24.04), features stunning artwork, with more creativity coming in Plucky Puffin (25.04). Did you know Ubuntu 14.10 was the only release without unique visuals? We’ve included that fun fact—and many more—in our guide.
Rest easy knowing every image is sourced directly from official repositories. Explore version-specific downloads, customization tips, and the evolution of these iconic backgrounds. Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Ubuntu Wallpapers
Millions of users start their day with these vibrant visuals. Every six months, a fresh release brings new artistry to screens worldwide. It’s a rhythm 22 million desktop fans eagerly anticipate.
From the early days of earthy browns to today’s luminous gradients, each image mirrors the OS’s evolving identity. The official artwork team crafts designs to last—especially for LTS versions, which grace screens for five years.
Wallpaper reveals spark community buzz during development cycles. For the 20th anniversary, the Oracular Oriole design blended nostalgia with modern flair. People still celebrate these creative milestones.
Ready to explore two decades of Linux history? Let’s journey through the designs that defined an era.
The Evolution of Default Ubuntu Wallpapers
Linux desktops transformed dramatically with each new wallpaper release. The Ubuntu logo first appeared in 2004 on Warty Warthog’s earthy brown background. Simple yet iconic, it set the stage for two decades of innovation.
By 2008, Hardy Heron broke the mold with the first mascot illustration. Fans adored the playful heron wading through water. This design marked a shift from abstract to storytelling visuals.
In 2014, Trusty Tahr introduced the Suru design language. Its origami-inspired folds created a sleek, modern default look. The effect was so popular it influenced later releases like Ubuntu 20.04.
Artful Aardvark (2017) revived animal motifs after a 9-year hiatus. Then came Focal Fossa’s fierce feline—its laser eyes sparked debates but showed bold creativity. Today’s geometric animals, like Mantic Minotaur’s maze, keep the tradition fresh.
Looking ahead, Plucky Puffin (25.04) will feature swirling water elements. Yet not every release was unique—Utopic Unicorn reused its predecessor’s design. Even missteps add charm to this visual journey!
Where to Download Ubuntu Wallpapers
Official repositories offer the safest way to refresh your screen. The ubuntu-wallpapers package in Ubuntu’s archives includes every default design. For Ubuntu 22.10, just run sudo apt install ubuntu-wallpapers-kinetic to get started.
Prefer older releases? The Ubuntu 17.10 artwork lives in its own package too. Raspberry Pi users running Groovy Gorilla (20.10) can grab specialized backgrounds tailored for smaller screens.
The Ubuntu Artwork Team maintains these packages on Launchpad with medium urgency. We recommend sticking to official sources—third-party archives might lack updates or security checks.
For legacy LTS versions, install ubuntu-wallpapers-lts-legacy. Note that some older releases face upstream challenges, but the team preserves most classics. Whether you’re nostalgic for Ubuntu 22.10 or exploring the 17.10 project, we’ve got you covered.
Ubuntu Wallpapers by Version
From earthy beginnings to geometric animals, these designs define Linux history. We’ve grouped them into three creative eras, each reflecting the OS’s growth. Let’s explore!
The Brown Era (4.10–9.10) introduced warm earth tones and subtle logo refinements. Early designs like Warty Warthog’s textured background set a minimalist tone. By 9.10, the palette deepened into rich ochres.
Next came the Purple Revolution (10.04–17.04), where gradients and Suru patterns took over. The ubuntu 21.04 release showcased luminous violet hues, while Trusty Tahr’s origami folds became iconic. Even Utopic Unicorn’s reused design couldn’t dim this era’s boldness.
Today’s Animal Renaissance (17.10–present) features circle-constructed mascots. Ubuntu 23.04’s Lunar Lobster and Focal Fossa’s laser-eyed cat sparked memes. Look ahead to ubuntu 25.04 for swirling aquatic themes.
Notable standouts include Hardy Heron (8.04), a community favorite with its watercolor heron. Each version package holds 16–20 wallpapers, including light/dark variants. Pro tip: Dig into older packages for hidden community submissions!
Alternative Ubuntu Wallpapers
Looking beyond the defaults? Discover fresh ways to personalize your desktop. The official artwork is just the start—community creators and third-party packs offer endless variety.
For a modern look, try Irem Desktop. Its bold colors come with or without logos, perfect for minimalist fans. Prefer cyberpunk vibes? The Tron Legacy pack adds glowing light cycles and neon grids.
Material Design lovers will appreciate Google-inspired patterns with subtle branding. Nature enthusiasts can integrate Unsplash’s high-res photos, while anime fans might opt for Naruto or Star Wars themes.
Developers, we’ve got you too. Command cheat sheet backgrounds keep shortcuts visible. For multi-monitor setups, GNOME extensions like “Wallpaper Switcher” sync images across screens seamlessly.
Remember: modifying official designs requires checking copyright rules. The team behind Ubuntu 19.10 shares guidelines for respectful remixes. Whether you crave a new look or just a seasonal refresh, these options spark creativity.
How to Change Wallpapers in Ubuntu
Personalizing your Linux experience starts with the perfect desktop backdrop. Whether you’re a beginner or a power user, we’ve got simple steps to refresh your screen.
Right-click on your desktop and select “Change Background” for the easiest method. The GNOME settings menu lets you preview and apply new designs instantly. Prefer terminal magic? Use gsettings set org.gnome.desktop.background picture-uri 'file:///path/to/image.jpg' for quick swaps.
Automate wallpaper rotations with the Wallpaper Changer extension. Set intervals from minutes to days—ideal for seasonal themes. For version-specific flair, create custom packs by organizing images into folders and linking them in Settings.
Hit a snag? Fix corrupted files by reinstalling the wallpaper package or checking permissions with chmod. For 4K or animated backgrounds, monitor system resources; lightweight formats like JPEG work best.
Explore third-party tools like HydraPaper for multi-screen setups. Users love its drag-and-drop interface and sync features. Pro tip: Backup your favorites before experimenting!
Conclusion
Two decades of artistic evolution have shaped Linux’s visual identity. From 2004’s earthy browns to 2024’s regal Numbat, each release reflects creative milestones. We’ve loved watching these Ubuntu wallpaper designs become cultural touchstones for millions.
Mix official and community artwork to make your desktop uniquely yours. Try creating time capsules with period-accurate backgrounds—it’s a fun way to relive 20 years of design history. Share your favorites with #UbuntuWallpaperHistory!
The development team continues pushing boundaries. Exciting aquatic themes arrive in 25.04, proving innovation never stops. Whether you prefer classic looks or modern flair, these Ubuntu wallpaper collections offer reassuring consistency with room for personal expression.