The buzz is growing around Ubuntu's upcoming Linux release version 11.04, codenamed Natty Narwhal, or NN.

PC World is framing it as the best Linux release to date, with the souped up Unity 2D/3D interface coming to desktops. Unity also takes better advantage of touchscreen capabilities.

Unity is also being designed with Arm processors in mind, so a version of this release with Unity could well be headed to tablets. And even smartphones, if Ubuntu goes really slim. Ubuntu has not played in smartphones for years, but they should now sense the opportunity.

There is are also a new audio application. OpenOffice could be replaced by LibreOffice.

Natty is due on April 28 per the Ubuntu roadmap, so it's a ways away. But if you can't wait, you can download the early Alpha 1 off the Ubuntu website.