A GNOME desktop compatible software, PackageKit is a client designed for installation of packages.
PackageKit utilizes the actual working processes of distro tools like Yum, Apt, and Conary via compiled and scripted helpers, providing a standard set of abstractions for GUI and text mode package managers. This software is not meant to replace these tools; rather, it aims to make things more manageable by synchronizing the overall process in a customizable and familiar interface.
PackageKit runs on a daemon called packagekitd, which is only activated when the user is accessing a graphical or text-mode tool, and shuts off when no longer in use. You do not have to worry about memory consumption during unused periods of the day or evening, nor will it interfere with start-up processes.
Overall, I would recommend trying out gnome-packagekit and PackageKit for anyone looking to streamline their software installation and updating processes on their computers. The interface is simple and intuitive, and the integration of distro tools via compiled and scripted helpers makes things much easier to manage.
Version 2.28.1: N/A