During the company’s Build 2019 event this week, Microsoft announced that for the first time ever, a custom-built Linux kernel would be added to Windows. A brand-new terminal application for command-line junkies was also revealed.
Insiders will be able to get their hands on the first build of Windows 10 with a baked-in Linux kernel this summer. It’ll be based on version 4.19, “the latest long-term stable release of Linux.”
Performance of the original Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) suffered due to emulation, but thanks to the inclusion of a Linux kernel, WSL2 should be speedier than ever.
With Windows Terminal, Microsoft has dramatically improved the command-line experience with a single app that integrates Command Prompt, PowerShell, and other popular tools. Multiple tab support means users can easily switch between apps.
The interface is also fully customizable, allowing one to create profiles and select unique combinations of font styles and background colors for each shell or app.