Ubuntu – How to upgrade to a newer version of a package than is available in the repository

aptpackage-management

While using an open source genealogy program I encountered an error. I submitted a bug report and the author quickly fixed the problem (Yay for open source!).

Now I want off course to try the latest release (3.2.5) of this program (which includes the bugfix for my problem). Apt-get tells me that the version I have installed (3.2.3-1) is already the newest version.

So what is the best way to upgrade to a newer version of a package then is available in the repositories?

Do I:

  • remove the version I have currently installed with the package manager. Download the source of the newest version and compile it myself? Will this give problems when newer versions come out? Will I have to update this program manually in the future whenever newer versions come out?
  • Should I do the above, but with a program like checkinstall, and remove the manually compiled version once the version can be installed via the package manager?
  • Should I make a request for the package to be backported? I think my request will make little chance because the rules read:

    Applications to be backported must have meaningful benefits to the user not attainable via other processes. Specifically: The sole purpose must not be to fix a bug or security vulnerability.

Or is there another way to do this correctly?

Best Answer

In this particular case then the GRAMPS website provides a download link for a Ubuntu .deb package of version 3.2.5.

On this listing page select gramps_3.2.5-1_ubuntu10.deb which should be easily installable by double clicking on the downloaded file.