Tag: Linux

  • Acer Nitro Blaze Link vs Logitech G Cloud

    Acer Nitro Blaze Link vs Logitech G Cloud

    Key Takeaway

    – The Acer Nitro Blaze Link is a Linux-based handheld for streaming games, not running them locally.
    – It features a 7-inch 1920×1200 60Hz display, 1GB RAM, and 8GB eMMC storage.
    – Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and a USB-C port, with no microSD card slot.
    – It uses Sunshine and Moonlight software for low-latency streaming from a PC.
    – Weighs 464 grams, has dual 2W speakers, and is set for a Q4 release with no price yet.


    Acer have announced a new handheld, and while it falls under its Nitro Blaze line of gaming handhelds, this device doesn’t run Windows. As a matter of fact, it runs Linux, and its specs are similar to what we would find on cheap Android handhelds. While that might be surprising, the use case — which is for streaming games from your more powerful computer — sort of justifies why its specs are a far cry from those of the other Nitro Blaze handhelds.

    Display, RAM, and Storage Details

    Called the Acer Nitro Blaze Link, the handheld has a 7-inch touch display with a 1920 × 1200 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The display is the same size as that of the Logitech G Cloud, but Acer’s handheld has a higher resolution. There’s no mention of a high refresh rate, so it is presumed the display refreshes at 60Hz.

    Although the official product page doesn’t say, Videocardz reports that the Nitro Blaze Link has 1GB of RAM and 8GB of eMMC storage. There’s no mention of a microSD card slot and we didn’t spot one in any of the images. It is also reported to have a single-cell 18Wh battery that charges at 15W.

    Physical Controls and Button Layout

    With respect to its look, the display is flanked on the left by a thumbstick, a D-pad, and two buttons (Home and Back). There’s another thumbstick on the right, alongside the ABXY buttons, a mute button, and a Start button. The top of the Nitro Blaze Link is home to the power and volume buttons, and a USB-C port, while the bottom houses an audio jack.

    The handheld has stacked shoulder and trigger buttons. It also features dual front-facing 2W speakers. The back has ergonomic grips, and Acer says that the handheld’s 464-gram weight is easy to carry and comfortable to hold for long gaming sessions.

    Connectivity, Software and Release

    Acer says the Nitro Blaze Link has Wi-Fi 6 for low-latency streaming from a laptop or PC. Videocardz mentions that the handheld ships with Sunshine and Moonlight software for game streaming. Acer hasn’t revealed pricing details for the Nitro Blaze Link, but it is scheduled to be released in the fourth quarter of the year.

    Sources
  • PrismLinux 2026.05.05 with New Installer and Linux Kernel 7.0 Release

    PrismLinux 2026.05.05 with New Installer and Linux Kernel 7.0 Release

    Key Takeaway

    1. PrismLinux 2026.05.05 is a stable, Arch-based release featuring the 7.0 kernel and GNOME 50 support.
    2. The update includes a full website redesign and multiple repository fixes.
    3. The ISO size is 2.5 GB, with recommended 8 GB RAM for optimal performance.

    The latest update to the lightweight Linux distributions has arrived with a bang, now known as PrismLinux 2026.05.05. This new version, based on Arch Linux, brings along some significant upgrades, including the latest 7.0 kernel, support for GNOME 50, and various other improvements. The developers have worked hard to make this release more stable and user-friendly for enthusiasts who prefer a minimalistic yet powerful OS.

    New Features and System Requirements

    The size of the ISO file is about 2.5 GB, which is quite reasonable for an ultralight distro. You will need at least 2 GB of RAM and 30 GB of storage to run it properly, but for an optimal experience, 8 GB of memory is highly recommended. Although there’s no specific processor mentioned on the official site, an AMD Ryzen 5 5500 (which can be found at an 86-dollar discounted rate on Amazon) should be more than sufficient to keep PrismLinux running smoothly.

    Design Improvements and Fixes

    • The official webpage has undergone a full redesign, giving it a sleeker, more modern look.
    • The repository has received numerous fixes that enhance stability and security, making the system more reliable for daily use.

    Additional Details Your Should Know

    Another notable aspect is the complete overhaul of the system’s visual and performance aspects. The inclusion of GNOME 50 support means you’ll get a more updated desktop environment that’s both performant and visually appealing—perfect for users who want a balance of speed and user experience. All these features make PrismLinux 2026.05.05 an exciting choice for those who crave lightweight yet capable Linux distributions for their hardware.

    Sources
  • France switches to Linux for government computers, ditching Windows

    France switches to Linux for government computers, ditching Windows

    Key Takeaway

    1. France’s government is transitioning from Windows to Linux to reduce reliance on non-EU technology and enhance digital sovereignty.
    2. The initiative aims to eliminate “extra-European digital dependencies,” with a focus on using Eurozone-developed software.
    3. The move underscores France’s intent to control its data, infrastructure, and strategic digital decisions, especially concerning American technology tools.

    France’s Bold Move to Linux and Away from US Tech Giants

    France has taken a giant leap towards digital independence by announcing its plan to convert all government computers from Windows to Linux across the entire country. This initiative is a direct response to the desire for less reliance on non-European technology solutions, aiming to boost the digital sovereignty of France. The intermediary digital department (DINUM) clearly stated that their goal is to replace Windows with Linux-based workstations, which marks a significant shift in their tech policy.

    Government Focus on European Software

    With a firm goal to cut dependence on extra-European digital solutions, France is working hard to ensure its public sector uses only Eurozone-developed software. Their plan is to eliminate foreign digital dependencies by this coming fall. The government emphasizes the importance of sovereignty over their digital infrastructure and data, pushing for a complete transition that reduces reliance on American companies and their proprietary software.

    Remarks from French Officials and Their Digital Sovereignty Goals

    Minister of Action and Public Accounts, David Amiel, expressed strongly that France cannot afford to be dependent anymore. He stated that France must “desensitize” itself from American tools and start controlling its digital landscape better. The urgency in his voice indicates that safeguarding data, infrastructure, and strategic choices from foreign influence is a top priority for France now. This move is part of a broader effort to map dependencies and take command of their own technological future.

    Joining the EU’s Open-Source Movement

    This transition aligns France with other European countries like Denmark and parts of Germany, who are also embracing free and open-source software (FOSS). While moving desktops to Linux is straightforward, the long-term consequences are wider—particularly in crucial technology sectors such as mobile communications, where proprietary tech still dominates. Whether France will also choose open-source alternatives for mobile or other proprietary platforms remains to be seen, but their push towards open-source is clear and resolute.

    Sources
  • Linux Ported to PS5: GTA 5 Enhanced with Ray Tracing Running Smoothly

    Linux Ported to PS5: GTA 5 Enhanced with Ray Tracing Running Smoothly

    Key Takeaways

    1. Andy Nguyen successfully ported Linux to the PS5, demonstrating its capabilities.
    2. GTA 5 Enhanced Edition runs smoothly on the PS5 with Linux at around 60 FPS and ray tracing.
    3. The PS5 supports full 4K HDMI video output, audio, and all USB ports are functional.
    4. The CPU can be overclocked to 3.5 GHz and GPU to 2.23 GHz, but higher settings cause overheating.
    5. The Linux setup is limited to older PS5 firmware versions due to a complete chain exploit requirement.


    While lots of gamers are eagerly anticipating the PS6, which may still take a couple years to come out due to the ongoing memory shortage, modders are busy tinkering with existing consoles in the meantime. One such modder, Andy Nguyen, has successfully managed to get Linux running on the PS5.

    Successful Linux Port

    In a recent update on X, Nguyen showcased his achievement of porting Linux to the PS5. He shared a video that features GTA 5 Enhanced Edition running flawlessly on the console at approximately 60 FPS with ray tracing activated.

    Functionality and Performance

    Nguyen also pointed out that both 4K HDMI video output and audio work perfectly, and all USB ports on the PS5 are operational as well. The CPU is currently clocked at 3.2 GHz, while the GPU runs at 2.0 GHz. He mentioned that there is potential to push the hardware even further. The CPU can be overclocked to 3.5 GHz and the GPU to 2.23 GHz, but this causes his PS5 Slim to heat up pretty fast. Because of this, he chose not to take the system to those higher performance levels.

    Limitations of the Setup

    However, there is a significant drawback. Nguyen clarified that this configuration only operates with a complete chain exploit, which means it is limited to running on older versions of the PS5 firmware.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Nvidia 580.126.18 Linux Driver Released for Kernel 6.19 Fixes

    Nvidia 580.126.18 Linux Driver Released for Kernel 6.19 Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia has released version 580.126.18 of its Linux display driver as a maintenance update, focusing on compatibility with Linux kernel v6.19.
    2. The update addresses a kernel module build problem, ensuring the Nvidia driver installs correctly as the kernel is updated.
    3. Users who frequently update their kernels may face module build failures without this update, making it important for maintaining driver functionality.
    4. The update is designated as the current Production Branch release, and may be distributed through various Linux distribution repositories.
    5. A system reboot is typically required after installation or updating to ensure the new kernel module is loaded and operational.


    Nvidia has released a new recommended Linux display driver version: 580.126.18. This version is now featured on Nvidia’s Unix driver webpage as the latest in the Production Branch, alongside various newer beta and feature tracks.

    Maintenance Update

    In essence, this update isn’t packed with new features. Instead, it serves as a maintenance release aimed at ensuring that Nvidia’s proprietary Linux stack remains functional and installs seamlessly as the kernel gets updated.

    According to reports from third-party sources referencing Nvidia’s release notes, the primary change in 580.126.18 involves a single line: it addresses a kernel module build problem with Linux kernel v6.19.

    Importance of Compatibility

    This is significant because Nvidia’s driver depends on kernel modules that need to compile correctly, either through Nvidia’s .run installer or via your distribution’s DKMS workflow. When the kernel modifies an internal interface, out-of-tree modules like those from Nvidia might not build properly until the company provides a patch for compatibility.

    Users on distributions that quickly adopt new kernels (or those who manually update to newer kernels) are at a higher risk of encountering module build failures. If you’ve upgraded to kernel 6.19 and your Nvidia driver installation or update fails during module compilation, then 580.126.18 is designed to fix that issue.

    Automatic Rebuilds

    Many distributions will automatically rebuild the Nvidia kernel module when a new kernel is released. However, if a DKMS rebuild fails after a kernel update, you might end up without a functioning graphics driver until you either upgrade to a compatible version or revert the kernel.

    If your existing kernel and driver combination is stable and you’re not experiencing any install or build errors, there’s no urgent need to rush to this update—it mainly serves as a compatibility patch for a specific kernel transition.

    Nvidia has designated 580.126.18 as the current Production Branch release on its Unix driver page. For those looking to download directly, Nvidia’s public driver directory lists the x86_64 installer options for version 580.126.18, including both the standard package and a “no-compat32” variant, along with checksum files. The timestamps in the directory indicate that these files were uploaded on February 11, 2026.

    Distribution Timing

    Many users will receive this update via their distribution’s repositories, with timing depending on the packaging process and the repository track in use. Nvidia’s own Linux driver release thread also confirms that 580.126.18 is the current version in the production branch.

    Typically, after installing or updating, a reboot is necessary to ensure that the updated kernel module is loaded and operational.

    Nvidia’s Linux driver stream is usually divided into several tracks, with “Production Branch” being the stable and recommended option highlighted on its Unix driver page, while the “New Feature Branch” and beta versions may progress more rapidly.

    So if you’re searching for a reliable driver and have just encountered a kernel 6.19 build issue, 580.126.18 is the solution that Nvidia is currently recommending for production users.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • GOG Shifts Focus to Linux as Windows Software Falls Short

    GOG Shifts Focus to Linux as Windows Software Falls Short

    Key Takeaways

    1. Michał Kiciński criticizes Windows, calling it “bad software,” and expresses surprise at its long-standing popularity.
    2. Increasing user frustration with Windows includes issues like unwanted AI features, ads in the Start menu, and high hardware demands of Windows 11.
    3. Kiciński prefers macOS at home but still has to manage Windows issues for his family, describing it as “unbelievable.”
    4. GOG is considering better support for Linux, spurred by criticism of Windows and the success of Valve’s Steam Deck.
    5. Users have long awaited a native Linux client for GOG Galaxy, but some express concerns about Linux’s compatibility issues and fragmentation.


    Michał Kiciński, the co-founder of CD Projekt and owner of GOG since 2025, is making waves once more with his candid opinions. After taking aim at the popular platform Steam, the Polish business figure has now set his sights on Windows. In a chat with PCGamer, he labelled Microsoft’s operating system as “bad software” and expressed disbelief that it has stayed in circulation for such a lengthy period.

    Growing Frustration with Windows

    Kiciński’s views echo a broader dissatisfaction with Windows. Over the past few years, users have voiced their grievances, especially regarding unwanted AI features like Copilot, advertisements appearing in the Start menu, and the increasing hardware demands of Windows 11. Because of these issues, many users are looking at alternatives like macOS or Linux. Kiciński made the switch a while ago and now prefers macOS at home, yet he still finds himself dealing with Windows occasionally. He often finds himself fixing his parents’ Windows computers, a task he describes as “unbelievable.”

    Potential Shift to Linux

    The interview also highlighted a rising interest in Linux at GOG, driven by the ongoing criticism of Windows and the popularity of Valve’s Linux-based Steam Deck, which is currently selling for about $480 on Amazon. While Kiciński directed his focus at Windows, Managing Director Maciej Gołębiewski provided a more straightforward response. “We could probably do more in this area – and that’s something we’ll be looking into,” he noted, hinting at a possible move toward enhanced Linux support.

    Future for Linux at GOG

    The prospects for better Linux compatibility at GOG in 2026 look encouraging. Up to this point, GOG Galaxy has not had a native Linux client, forcing users to depend on third-party solutions like Heroic or Lutris. On Reddit, many users have expressed that this potential change is long overdue and largely agree with the critiques aimed at Windows. However, not all opinions are without caution. Some users highlight the challenges that Linux itself presents, including compatibility problems and fragmentation among various distributions, which can make it tough for newcomers.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Cyberpunk 2077 & Red Dead Redemption 2 4K Test on SteamOS & Windows 11

    Cyberpunk 2077 & Red Dead Redemption 2 4K Test on SteamOS & Windows 11

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linux desktop market share reached 5% in the US, driven by growth among gamers.
    2. Gaming distributions like SteamOS have improved user-friendliness for Linux gamers.
    3. ETA Prime tested an all-AMD gaming PC running both Windows 11 and SteamOS for game performance comparison.
    4. Game performance varied between operating systems, with neither consistently outperforming the other across all titles.
    5. Dual-booting allows users to choose the best OS for each game while maintaining access to Windows features.


    Last year, we shared that the Linux desktop hit a notable 5% of the US desktop market for the first time. This growth has solid reasons, especially among gamers. Furthermore, a member of the Notebookcheck team recently discussed switching from Windows 11 to Linux and expressed satisfaction with that choice.

    Growth of Linux in Gaming

    This situation underscores the advancements Linux has achieved, particularly gaming distributions like SteamOS, Bazzite, and others, which have made the open-source platform more user-friendly for gamers. To investigate this further, YouTuber ETA Prime tested an all-AMD gaming PC, dual-booting it with Windows 11 Pro and SteamOS to see how games perform on both systems.

    Specs of the Gaming PC

    In the video, ETA Prime outlines the specs of the all-AMD gaming rig. It features an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor, which has eight cores and 16 threads, along with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM operating at up to 7,000 MT/s in a dual-channel setup. The processor sells for $469 on Amazon. The rig is built on an ASRock B850 Challenger motherboard and includes an AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX graphics card with 24 GB of VRAM, which is priced around $889 on Amazon. The storage consists of two 1 TB NVMe SSDs, one for Windows 11 Pro and the other for SteamOS. An 850 W Gold-rated power supply provides power.

    ETA Prime mentions that the components were chosen for their compatibility with SteamOS, ensuring all hardware functions smoothly with Valve’s system. The SteamOS used was version 3.7.17 and was installed from the stable channel, avoiding beta versions. Features like variable refresh rate (VRR), scaling options, and system tuning were enabled where possible, with CPU and GPU adjustments done directly through the BIOS instead of using third-party software.

    Game Performance Comparison

    To directly compare, ETA Prime played various games on both operating systems using the same settings. In Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K Ultra without FSR, Windows 11 managed 84 FPS, while SteamOS came in at 85 FPS, making both platforms quite equal.

    In Borderlands 4, Windows 11 had a slight edge, averaging 74 FPS compared to SteamOS’s 69 FPS at 4K Ultra with FSR Quality enabled. Forza Horizon 5 highlighted a more significant difference, with SteamOS averaging 157 FPS at 4K Extreme settings without FSR, while Windows 11 hit 191 FPS. ETA Prime speculated that this disparity might be due to the game’s strong connections to Microsoft’s ecosystem.

    On the other hand, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 favored SteamOS, delivering an average of 111 FPS at 4K Very High with FSR set to Quality, while Windows 11 averaged 103 FPS. Red Dead Redemption 2 without FSR saw SteamOS average 88 FPS and Windows 11 at 96 FPS.

    The YouTuber also tested more popular games like Left 4 Dead 2, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and Doom: The Dark Ages at 4K on SteamOS, with the complete tests available in the linked video.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the performance varies by game, with neither OS consistently outperforming the other across all titles. ETA Prime concludes that the dual-boot method provides flexibility, enabling users to select the OS that works best for each game while still having access to the comprehensive Windows ecosystem when necessary.

    ETA Prime via YouTube

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Linux Founder Claims Elon Musk Lacks Tech Company Skills

    Linux Founder Claims Elon Musk Lacks Tech Company Skills

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linus Torvalds is known for his blunt and controversial opinions, previously criticizing Nvidia harshly.
    2. In an interview, Torvalds rejected the idea of measuring developer efficiency by lines of code, calling it “simply incompetent.”
    3. He stated that anyone who believes in this metric is “simply too stupid to work in a tech company.”
    4. Torvalds was unaware his criticism was linked to Elon Musk but later affirmed his stance upon realizing it.
    5. The tech community largely supported Torvalds’ comments, expressing skepticism towards Musk’s approach to software development.


    Linus Torvalds, the creator of the Linux OS, is well-known for his straightforward and often harsh manner. He has stirred up controversies before, notably when he labeled Nvidia as “the worst company” he had ever dealt with, even adding a middle finger gesture for emphasis. Recently, the open-source pioneer has turned his criticism towards Elon Musk, albeit initially without realizing it.

    Interview Insights

    During a chat on the YouTube channel Linus Tech Tips, the discussion was supposed to center around the future of software creation. At one moment, the topic of evaluating developer efficiency by counting the number of lines of code instead of considering code quality, organization, or maintainability came up. Torvalds quickly dismissed this idea as “simply incompetent.”

    The seasoned expert remarked that anyone who holds such a perspective is “simply too stupid to work in a tech company.” At that point, Torvalds was unaware that this metric was reportedly associated with Elon Musk. When he learned about this, he didn’t retract his statements — rather, he reaffirmed his stance, stating, “apparently I was spot on.”

    Community Reaction

    Torvalds’ remarks received a lot of support in the comments section of YouTube and on Reddit, especially from programmers and fans of open source. Numerous users showed doubt towards Elon Musk, perceiving him more as a performer than a genuine tech innovator. One user, u/kraven48, summed it up plainly: “Even a freshman in college could tell you that using the number of lines of code as a metric is stupid.”

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Tuxedo Halts Linux Laptop Plans with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite

    Tuxedo Halts Linux Laptop Plans with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tuxedo has paused the development of a new ARM laptop powered by the Snapdragon X Elite SoC due to Linux compatibility issues.
    2. The performance features, such as battery life, that are effective in Windows environments do not translate well to Linux.
    3. Essential features like BIOS updates on Linux were found to be lacking with the Snapdragon X Elite architecture.
    4. Tuxedo is considering shifting to the newer Snapdragon X2 Elite SoCs for future development, leveraging work already done on the previous model.
    5. All work completed on the paused project will be made public to benefit the open-source community.


    Tuxedo has teased a new ARM laptop that is set to be powered by the 12-core Snapdragon X Elite SoC in 2024. The device was designed to run on Linux, which would have set it apart since most systems using Qualcomm’s PC SoCs run Windows on ARM (WoA).

    Project Put on Hold

    However, after a year and a half of development, Tuxedo has announced that they are pausing this project, as they found that Linux compatibility with the Snapdragon X Elite SoC is “less suitable than expected.” The company noted that many advantages of these SoCs, which are prominent in Windows environments, do not translate well to Linux (currently, the 2024 Microsoft Surface Pro is priced at $899.99 on Amazon).

    Issues with Performance

    For instance, Tuxedo pointed out that the impressive battery life that Qualcomm frequently promotes for Windows on ARM devices “was not achieved under Linux.” Furthermore, they indicated that several essential features, like BIOS updates on Linux, were lacking in this architecture.

    Looking Ahead

    Another important consideration for Tuxedo is that the Snapdragon X Elite SoCs are already two years old, with Qualcomm having introduced their successors. Investing further time and resources into these older processors seemed impractical, but the good news is that Tuxedo has not completely shelved the project.

    As stated in their announcement, if Tuxedo can leverage a “significant portion” of the work already done on the Snapdragon X Elite, they plan to continue development with the Snapdragon X2 Elite SoCs. Of course, support from Qualcomm will be crucial in this endeavor.

    Open Source Future

    The announcement also highlighted that all the work Tuxedo has accomplished on this project will be made public. This will ultimately allow the community to benefit from the time and effort the team has dedicated thus far.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • InfinityBook Pro 15: Intel APU, Thunderbolt, 240Hz, 128GB RAM

    InfinityBook Pro 15: Intel APU, Thunderbolt, 240Hz, 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. New model variant: Tuxedo’s InfinityBook Pro 15 offers a tailored Linux version, with options for Windows installation.
    2. Powerful hardware: Features Intel Core Ultra 7 255H, supports up to 128 GB DDR5 RAM, and dual M.2 SSDs.
    3. High-resolution display: 15.3-inch IPS display with 2560 x 1600 resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 500 cd/m² brightness.
    4. Robust design: Aluminum chassis, weighs 1.75 kg, and includes a 99 Wh battery with USB-C charging.
    5. Connectivity options: Supports WiFi 6E, Gigabit Ethernet, multiple USB ports, Thunderbolt 4, and can connect up to three external monitors.


    Tuxedo is broadening its selection of laptops with a new model variant. As is customary, this laptop comes with a tailored version of Linux, but buyers can also easily order Windows or install it later. The InfinityBook Pro 15 is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and does not include a dedicated graphics card. Users can connect up to three external monitors in addition to the built-in display. For high-resolution displays, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4a, and DisplayPort 2.1 are available.

    Memory and Storage Options

    This model features two slots for DDR5 RAM, allowing for a maximum of either 128 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM or 96 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM. Additionally, it can accommodate two M.2 2280 SSDs, including double-sided variants, each linked via four PCIe 4.0 lanes. The laptop’s display is an IPS panel measuring 15.3 inches diagonally with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600. It supports a peak refresh rate of 240 Hz and Adaptive Sync and is reported to cover the sRGB color space completely. The specified brightness stands at 500 cd/m².

    Design and Features

    The laptop has a thickness of about 20 millimeters and weighs 1.75 kilograms with the battery that is securely installed inside. The display cover, along with the upper and lower chassis, is constructed from aluminum, while the frame around the display is made of plastic. The battery features a capacity of 99 Wh and can be charged through USB-C. A 150-watt power adapter is included in the package. For connectivity, WiFi 6E and Gigabit Ethernet are offered. The device is equipped with a webcam compatible with Windows Hello, along with speakers and a microphone. Also included are a memory card reader, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C, and Thunderbolt 4. The base model is expected to retail for roughly $1,175 and should be available starting mid-November.

    Source:
    Link