Zorin OS 18.1 improves Windows app detection

On October 14, 2025, Zorin OS 18 arrived with quite a few changes. Since then, this Ubuntu-based distro has been downloaded no less than 3.3 million times. Now, the time has come for version 18.1, an update backed with the promise to offer a "faster, easier, more secure, and better than ever" computing experience.

Without further ado, these are the highlights of Zorin OS 18.1:

• Support for over 240 Windows apps thanks to the 40% expansion of the built-in database that detects installer files. Now, Zorin OS can recommend even more tailored alternatives to sideloading their Windows pieces of code.
• Advanced Window Tiling with new options that can be accessed from the Zorin Menu>Zorin Appearance>Windows.
• Taskbar and panel layout now display right-to-left to match the rest of the interface for languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, or Urdu.
• Faster and smoother overall experience thanks to the many tweaks and fixes under the hood.
• LibreOffice 26.2.
• Built-in support for Flatpak, AppImage, and Snap packages.

This release also introduces the Lite edition, which targets old and lower-spec computers. Obviously, those using a more modern piece of hardware shouldn't bother with it and choose the standard edition instead. 

In addition to Lenovo ThinkPad and Samsung Galaxy Book laptops, among many others, Zorin OS 18.1 should also run like a charm on handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally, which is currently available on Amazon for 10% off ($539.99 instead of $599.99).