How to Install Vim 8.2 on Ubuntu – UltraLinux Home Page

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing Vim 8.2 on Ubuntu, tailored for users interested in the UltraLinux project (https://ultralinux.org/) or those seeking a specific version of Vim for their Ubuntu environment. Vim 8.2 introduced features like popup windows, making it a desirable version for enhanced text editing. These instructions are compatible with Ubuntu 18.04, 20.04, or later, and assume you have administrative privileges.

Prerequisites

Ubuntu 18.04 or later.
Internet connection to download packages or source code.
Sudo privileges.
Basic familiarity with the terminal.

Method 1: Install Vim 8.2 Using a PPA

Using a Personal Package Archive (PPA) is the easiest way to install Vim 8.2, as it provides pre-built packages for Ubuntu.

Add the PPA Repository
Run the following command to add the jonathonf/vim PPA, which includes Vim 8.2:
```
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:jonathonf/vim
```
Update the Package List
Refresh the package index to include the new PPA:
```
sudo apt update
```
Install Vim 8.2
Install Vim 8.2 with:
```
sudo apt install vim
```
Verify the Installation
Check the installed version to confirm Vim 8.2 is installed:
```
vim --version
```
Look for VIM – Vi IMproved 8.2 in the output.

Note: PPAs involve trusting third-party maintainers. The jonathonf/vim PPA is widely used but review its safety for your needs.

Method 2: Build Vim 8.2 from Source

Building from source gives you more control over features and ensures you get Vim 8.2 exactly. This method is distribution-agnostic and useful for UltraLinux users on non-standard hardware.

Install Build Dependencies
Install the necessary tools and libraries:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y git build-essential libncurses5-dev libgtk2.0-dev libatk1.0-dev libcairo2-dev libx11-dev libxpm-dev libxt-dev python3-dev

Clone the Vim Repository
Download the Vim source code from GitHub:
```
git clone https://github.com/vim/vim.git
cd vim
```
Checkout Vim 8.2 Tag
Switch to the Vim 8.2 release tag:
```
git checkout v8.2.0000
```
Configure the Build
Configure Vim with desired features (e.g., Python support, GUI):
```
./configure --with-features=huge --enable-python3interp --enable-gui=auto
```
Compile and Install
Build and install Vim:
```
make
sudo make install
```
Verify the Installation
Check the installed version:
```
/usr/local/bin/vim --version
```
Ensure it reports VIM – Vi IMproved 8.2.
Clean Up
Optionally, clean up the build files:
```
make clean
make distclean
```

Note: This installs Vim to /usr/local/bin/vim, leaving the system’s default Vim (if any) intact.

Method 3: Install Vim 8.2 Using Snap

Snap provides an alternative package manager to install Vim 8.2.

Install Vim via Snap
Run:
```
sudo snap install --beta vim-editor
```
Verify the Installation
Check the version:
```
vim-editor --version
```
Confirm it’s Vim 8.2.

Note: The Snap version may not always guarantee exactly 8.2, as the –beta channel might include newer versions. Check the version after installation.

Troubleshooting

PPA installation fails: Ensure the PPA is still maintained. If not, use the source build method or check for alternative PPAs.
Missing dependencies when building: Run sudo apt build-dep vim to install additional build dependencies.
Vim not found: If installed via source, use /usr/local/bin/vim explicitly or add /usr/local/bin to your PATH.
SPARC compatibility: For UltraLinux users on SPARC hardware, the source build method is recommended, as PPAs and Snap are typically built for x86_64. Ensure dependencies are available for SPARC.

Conclusion

You now have Vim 8.2 installed on your Ubuntu system, ready for advanced text editing in your UltraLinux or other projects. The PPA method is simplest, while building from source offers customization. For SPARC-based systems, building from source is often the best approach due to hardware-specific requirements. For further assistance, consult the UltraLinux FAQ (https://ultralinux.org/faq.html) or community mailing lists.