The upcoming Ubuntu 26.04 LTS release will allow users to manage traditional .deb packages directly through the App Center graphical interface. This includes filtering, sorting, updating, and uninstalling deb packages alongside Snap apps. The change addresses long-standing user frustrations with Canonical's preference for Snap packaging.
Ubuntu users who prefer classic Debian .deb packages will soon find it easier to handle them via the graphical App Center in the forthcoming Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, scheduled as a long-term support version. Previously, the App Center primarily displayed Snap applications, making deb package management cumbersome and requiring terminal commands or manual navigation for tasks like uninstallation. In Ubuntu 24.04, double-clicking a .deb file initially opened the App Center without installing it, a behavior that Canonical later reversed following user feedback highlighted by It's FOSS. Now, selecting the 'Manage' option in the App Center sidebar will list all installed packages, with a 'Package type' filter to view deb packages, Snap apps, or both. Users can sort them by date updated or name and perform updates or uninstalls directly from this view—features reminiscent of pre-Snap App Center functionality. Snap packages retain advantages, such as an 'open' button on their listing pages and a 'revert' option in the dropdown menu. A pending merge request aims to add data-purging capabilities for Snap uninstalls to free disk space. When searching for apps, users can already choose between deb and Snap versions during installation. While Canonical continues to prioritize its Snap ecosystem, this update represents progress for deb supporters. As reported by OMG! Ubuntu.