The GIMP, the program considered by many to be the open source answer to Photoshop, has been updated. Aside from the usual list of tweaks and bug fixes, GIMP 2.6 is notable for the addition of the Generic Graphics Library, or GEGL for short. For those unaware, GEGL is a powerful open source technology that allows users to have access to more color. Although GEGL is still considered to be an “experimental feature,” many analysts see its inclusion as an important step in GIMP’s long journey towards mainstream acceptance.

In other news, it seems as if Google is planning to make a few much needed improvements to YouTube. Last week, the company unveiled a new uploading tool that allows users to tinker with their file’s metadata while the file is still being processed. Google has also raised the maximum file size from 100 megs to one gigabyte. Though experimental, the new improved YouTube file uploader is available now for all users.

Another service that is getting an update is the always popular StumbleUpon. The big news this time around is the removal of the software-based browser bar. Instead, StumbleUpon users will be treated to a small embedded window that will live inside of your browser. The only real caveat to this new system is that you’ll have to start your browsing session at the StumbleUpon website. Those who decide to stick with the traditional bar will not see a change in their overall service.

Elsewhere, office software developer SoftMaker has made the decision to offer copies of its Softmaker Office 2006 suite for free. While it might not be as polished, the newer — and decidedly more expensive — 2008 counterpart, Softmaker 2006 is filled to the brim with features, including full support of all Office 2007 documents. In addition, SoftMaker’s new office suite for Linux-based systems are almost ready to go live. Serial numbers for the limited-time beta test are available from the SoftMaker website.

It seems as if NPR has contracted the social networking bug. One part Digg and one part Facebook, the NPR social website aims to create conversations between listeners and readers of NPR. You can vote and “favorite” NPR articles, friend other users, and pretty much do anything you can on any modern social network. It’s a little light on the features, but in a strange way, that’s actually a bit refreshing these days. NPR’s attempt to join the web 2.0 universe is currently live and accepting new users.