Tag: KDE Plasma

  • Arch-based Xray_OS Gaming Distro Receives Major Update

    Arch-based Xray_OS Gaming Distro Receives Major Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xray_OS is an Arch-based Linux distribution designed for a personalized and optimized gaming environment, currently in early development by a single creator.

    2. The latest release features KDE Plasma as the default desktop, systemd as the init system, and includes various updated packages like gcc 15.2.1 and the 6.16.4 kernel.

    3. Unique tools such as Tolito, an AUR helper, enable easier package management, and the Tolitica welcome app allows users to switch shells and manage gaming packages.

    4. Xray_OS is free to download and has manageable system requirements, including a 64-bit processor, at least 2 GB of RAM, and 20 GB of drive space.

    5. Users can choose between two ISO files for installation: one with Calamares and another with a custom installer.

    Xray_OS is currently in its early stages; it started as a personal venture aimed at giving its creator a quick and reliable gaming environment. Still a solo effort, this Arch-based distribution is said to be more than just another Linux variant. The official site claims that Xray_OS is “the Linux you never expected,” thanks to its collection of unique tools built from the ground up, personalized wallpapers, and a user experience that is tailored for optimization.

    Latest Release Features

    The most recent version was launched yesterday, showcasing KDE Plasma and systemd as the default desktop and init systems. It also includes a variety of updated packages such as bind 9.20.12, gcc 15.2.1, flatpak 1.16.1, grub 2.12, gtk 4.18.6, the 6.16.4 kernel, Python 3.13.7, vim 9.1, and many others. Currently, the GPU driver detection feature still requires some tweaks, so users should proceed with caution while using it.

    Custom Tools and Features

    This distribution comes with Tolito, a unique AUR helper that simplifies the process of building and downloading packages from well-selected PKGBUILDs, while also allowing for automatic fallback to the regular AUR. Notable features include the seamless installation of DaVinci Resolve and compatibility with Pacman syntax.

    The Tolitica custom welcome application enables users to easily switch between shells (bash, fish, and zsh are offered), manage gaming packages, toggle Snapd and Flatpak, and access shortcuts for system configuration. Users can also manage their drives effortlessly.

    Accessibility and Requirements

    Xray_OS is available for free download and use. The system requirements are quite manageable: a 64-bit processor, at least 2 GB of system memory (4 GB is recommended), 20 GB of drive space, and support for UEFI or Legacy BIOS. There are two ISO files that can be downloaded: one includes Calamares and the other comes with a custom installer.

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  • Q4OS 5.8: New Ultralight Debian-based Distro Released

    Q4OS 5.8: New Ultralight Debian-based Distro Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Q4OS is a Linux distribution focused on supporting old hardware, particularly with 32-bit systems.
    2. The XPQ4 addon allows users to experience themes that mimic Windows versions from 2000 to XP.
    3. Q4OS 5.8 was recently released with automatic updates for current users and downloadable media for new installations.
    4. The minimum system requirements are low, with only a 1 GHz CPU and 1/5 GB memory/storage needed for the Plasma desktop and even lower for the Trinity desktop.
    5. Q4OS provides a familiar Windows-like interface, making it appealing for users looking to revive older machines without sacrificing functionality.

    Those who are still using old hardware have a wide range of choices when it comes to Linux distributions, and Q4OS is likely one of the most overlooked options available. The initial release of Q4OS was on July 4th, 2013, and it is particularly known for the XPQ4 addon, which enables users to experience visual themes that mimic the appearance of different Windows versions, starting from Windows 2000 up to XP. It continues to support 32-bit hardware and offers two desktop environments: KDE Plasma (available only for 64-bit systems) and Trinity.

    Key Features of Q4OS 5.8

    Released just yesterday, Q4OS 5.8 comes packed with several notable features. Current users will receive the update automatically through the Q4OS repository. For new users or those wishing to perform a clean installation, the latest media images can be downloaded from this page. The minimum system requirements for 2025 remain remarkably low: a 1 GHz CPU and 1/5 GB memory/storage for the Plasma desktop. For users opting for the Trinity desktop, only a 350 MHz CPU, 256 MB of memory, and 3 GB of storage space are necessary.

    A Closer Look at Q4OS

    Q4OS truly stands out as a desktop operating system. It provides a unique experience for users who want to revive older machines without compromising on functionality. With its simple yet effective design, it appeals to a niche group of users looking for a familiar Windows-like interface on their Linux systems. Whether you’re an existing user or looking to try something new, Q4OS offers an attractive option for those with limited resources.

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  • Bluestar Linux 6.13.2: New Kernel, Firefox 135, LibreOffice 25.2

    Bluestar Linux 6.13.2: New Kernel, Firefox 135, LibreOffice 25.2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bluestar Linux has released update version 6.13.2, based on the Linux kernel of the same version.
    2. Users can choose from three flavors during installation: Desktop, Deskpro, and Developer, with a single ISO file of 4.9 GB available for download.
    3. Key package updates include Firefox 135.0, LibreOffice 25.2.0, and glibc 2.41, but KDE Plasma and Thunderbird have not been updated.
    4. The included version of Thunderbird is 128.6.0, likely due to compatibility issues or testing constraints.
    5. Bluestar Linux can be used as a live distro, with support for persistent storage.

    Based on Arch Linux and coming from Germany, Bluestar has released a new update. This version is called 6.13.2 and is built on the Linux kernel of the same version. It includes a range of package updates, but some key components like KDE Plasma and Thunderbird haven’t been updated this time around.

    Update Details

    The complete version number for this update is bslx-6.13.2-1-2025.02.10-x86_64. One thing that remains the same is that users wishing to try out this distro can select from three different flavors. While there is a single ISO file of 4.9 GB available for download, the installation process lets users choose between Desktop, Deskpro, and Developer editions.

    Package Updates

    Updated packages in this release include bind 9.20.5, e2fsprogs 1.47.2, Firefox 135.0, glibc 2.41, LibreOffice 25.2.0, mesa 24.3.4, openjdk 23.0.2, QT 6.8.2, and systemd 257.2. However, Mozilla Thunderbird 135 is notably absent. The version of this email client included in Bluestar Linux 6.13.2 is 128.6.0, possibly due to compatibility issues or insufficient testing time.

    Live Distro Option

    For those concerned about installing a system that may not meet their needs, Bluestar can also function as a live distro, offering support for persistent storage.

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  • EndeavourOS 2025.02.08: Firefox 135, Dark Theme, Tweaks & Fixes

    EndeavourOS 2025.02.08: Firefox 135, Dark Theme, Tweaks & Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. EndeavourOS 2025.02.08 Mercury is based on Arch Linux and uses Linux kernel 6.13.1.arch2-1.
    2. The new ISO includes a memory test feature for EFI boot and resolves issues with BIOS/Legacy installations.
    3. A dark theme is now the default across multiple desktop environments: KDE Plasma, Gnome, Xfce, Mate, Budgie, and Cinnamon.
    4. Key packages have been updated, including automatic dark/light wallpaper settings in Gnome and a refreshed Xfce4 theme.
    5. Installation options include offline and online methods, requiring 15 GB disk space, with the online version offering more desktop environment choices.

    EndeavourOS 2025.02.08 Mercury was officially presented yesterday, even though the version number hints at a release on February 8th. This distro, based on Arch Linux, utilizes the Linux kernel 6.13, or for those interested in specifics, 6.13.1.arch2-1. The latest ISO now includes a memory test feature for EFI boot, and any problems related to BIOS/Legacy installations have been resolved. Users can expect a dark theme by default across several desktop environments, including KDE Plasma, Gnome, Xfce, Mate, Budgie, and Cinnamon.

    Upgraded Packages and Themes

    Moreover, several key packages have been updated, and their version details are listed. Gnome now automatically sets both dark and light wallpapers, enhancing the user experience. The Xfce4 theme has also been refreshed to resemble the default Xfce layout more closely. Additionally, an issue within the installer that displayed duplicate entries in the EFI selection dropdown has been fixed.

    Installation Options and Requirements

    The ISO file can be downloaded from various mirrors located worldwide, which are accessible on the official page. Both offline and online installations require a disk space of 15 GB and a 64-bit dual-core processor. The offline installation needs only 3 GB of memory, while the online version requires 4 GB. A key benefit of the online installer is that it offers a wider selection of desktop environments—eight in total and one window manager, including Xfce, KDE Plasma, Gnome, Mate, Cinnamon, Budgie, lxQT, lxDE, and i3-wm, unlike the offline installer, which includes Calamares and KDE Plasma only.

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  • Manjaro 24.1 “Xahea” Released with KDE Plasma 6.1.5 and VirtualBox 7.1

    Manjaro 24.1 “Xahea” Released with KDE Plasma 6.1.5 and VirtualBox 7.1

    With over ten years of experience, Manjaro is known as one of the most accessible Linux distributions, ideal for newcomers and advanced users alike, due to its straightforward installation and usability. Primarily developed in Austria, Germany, and France, this Arch-based distribution has recently rolled out a number of stable package updates, with the official release of version 24.1 just around the corner.

    Upcoming Release Details

    As mentioned in a recent forum post (refer to the Source(s) section for the link), the latest package updates signify the upcoming launch of Manjaro 24.1, also referred to as Xahea. Users can expect the new ISOs to be available shortly. While specifics are still limited, the changes included in today’s update feature Qemu 9.1, KDE Plasma 6.1.5, KDE Gear 24.08.1, LibreOffice 24.8.1, Firefox 130.0, VirtualBox 7.1, and ASUSCTL/ROG Control Center 6.0.12. The update also sees the removal of the 6.9 kernel.

    Kernel Support

    Although the 6.9 kernel has been discontinued (along with its predecessor, 6.8, which has also been removed from the repository), Manjaro Linux supports a wide array of kernels. The oldest supported kernel is 4.19, while the latest is 6.10.2_rt14.

    Learning Resources

    In a rapidly evolving Linux environment, the foundational aspects of the command line have remained consistent over the years. Those interested in mastering the basics may find value in Felix John’s book, Linux: Linux For Beginners: Your Step By Step Guide Of Becoming A Linux Command Line Ninja. Even after more than five years since its release, this book remains relevant and is available for free with Kindle Unlimited (or for $2.99 to purchase). For those preferring a physical copy, the paperback version is priced at $15.14.

    Manjaro Linux Forum

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