Tag: Ubuntu-based

  • Rhino Linux 2026.1 Adds Lomiri on Desktop and Mobile

    Rhino Linux 2026.1 Adds Lomiri on Desktop and Mobile

    Key Takeaway

    – Rhino Linux is a Ubuntu-based rolling-release distro with Lomiri support expanding to generic ISO images (x86_64/ARM64) for desktop and mobile.
    – It features a Pacstall-based package manager wrapper (with APT, Snaps, Flatpaks), a post-install wizard, a Calamares installer, and release ISO builder.
    – 2026.1 snapshot introduces Lomiri on more devices and updates Pacstall 6.4.x, including new internal variables and exportable KVER support for scripts.
    – Downloads are available via a configurable SourceForge ISO download page; Firefox and other tools are not required, but a link is provided in the Rhino Linux Blog.


    Rhino Linux: An Overview

    Rhino Linux is an open-source, community-maintained, Ubuntu-based rolling release distro built atop Pacstall and Xfce. The ecosystem bundles an app for system information and software updates, a post-installation setup wizard, a package management wrapper for Pacstall, APT, Snaps, and Flatpaks, a release ISO builder, and a custom Calamares installer. With the 2026.1 snapshot images, Rhino Linux improves the desktop/mobile user experience by introducing Lomiri on a broader range of devices.

    Lomiri on Generic ISOs

    Formerly mobile-only, Lomiri is now accessible via generic ISO images supporting x86_64 and ARM64 architectures. According to the official blog post, Lomiri support on generic systems “is still considered an evolving experience,” yet the Rhino Linux team is “excited to continue working closely with the UBports team to provide improvements for Lomiri users on desktop and mobile.” The tone suggests ongoing refinement and collaborative effort across platforms.

    Pacstall and Kernel Details

    This release cycle ships with the Pacstall 6.4.x series, featuring the DNUM and CDNUM internal variables, the PACSTALL_XTRACEFD and PACSTALL_XTRACEFDLOG environment variables, and the ability to export KVER to pre/post scripts. A comprehensive list of Pacstall-related improvements and fixes is available on the official page, though the document here notes these updates as part of the ongoing evolution.

    Kernel Options and Hardware

    While the generic ISO images include the 7.0.9-generic kernel, there are other kernel versions available through different images, and those images correspond to the kernels they carry. This highlights Rhino Linux’s modular approach to kernel deployment, enabling users to select builds that fit their hardware or use case.

    Shopping Note and Downloads

    Interest in related hardware can lead readers to external listings, but this article keeps the focus on Rhino Linux itself. The CanaKit Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit PRO (Turbine Black, 8/128 GB) is mentioned in context to hardware discussions, with a price noted, though this is ancillary to the distro information. For Rhino Linux downloads, users can initiate from the official page, which provides a quick way (via dropdown menus) to access all ISO images hosted on SourceForge.

    Source and Access

    Rhino Linux maintains a blog and download hub that guides users through image choices and installation steps. The emphasis remains on accessible ISO images and a streamlined path to experimentation with the Lomiri-enabled builds, while keeping focus on the core components like Pacstall, APT, Snaps, and Flatpaks within the system.

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  • Zorin OS 18.1 Enhances Windows App Detection and Compatibility

    Zorin OS 18.1 Enhances Windows App Detection and Compatibility

    Key Takeaway

    1. Zorin OS 18.1 introduces a Lite edition optimized for older and lower-spec hardware.
    2. The update emphasizes improved speed, ease of use, security, and overall performance.
    3. Compatibility expanded to include popular laptops and handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally.

    Introduction of Zorin OS 18.1

    On October 14, 2025, Zorin OS 18 was released with a bunch of improvements. This Linux-based system, built on Ubuntu, has been downloaded over 3.3 million times so far. Now, the newest version, 18.1, comes with the promise to be more faster, easier to use, more secure, and overall better than before. Its main aim is to give users a smooth and reliable computing experience.

    Features and Updates in 18.1 Version

    The latest update also brings a brand new Lite edition, specially designed for older computers and ones with low specs. Those who are using newer, high-performance machines probably won’t need the Lite version and should stick with the standard one. This update emphasizes performance improvements and additional security measures, making the user experience more seamless and safe across all devices.

    Device Compatibility and Availability

    Compatible with a wide range of hardware, including recent Lenovo ThinkPad and Samsung Galaxy Book laptops, Zorin OS 18.1 is also expected to work well on gaming handhelds such as the ASUS ROG Ally. Currently, the ASUS ROG Ally is available at many stores, like Amazon, where it’s selling at a discounted price of $539.99, down from the original $599.99—about a 10% saving. This broad hardware support means users can expect the OS to perform well on various machines, from traditional laptops to handheld gaming devices.


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