Manjaro Linux has announced the release of its third release candidate for version 26.0, named Anh-Linh RC3. This iteration provides users with an updated snapshot of the Plasma 6.5 desktop environment, alongside GNOME 49 and the anticipated Cosmic version. Key updates in this release include advancements in various system components, featuring the latest Mesa driver (version 25.3.1), Vulkan SDK (1.4.328.1), and the new real-time Linux kernel series (6.17-rt), replacing the now outdated 6.16 version.

On January 1, 2026, Arch Linux unveiled its latest installation media, featuring the kernel version 6.18.2. Known for its "Keep It Simple" philosophy, Arch Linux delivers a lightweight and highly customizable experience, appealing to users who appreciate both flexibility and ease of use. The distribution is built around optimized packages specifically designed for the x86-64 architecture and is continually enhanced by a community-operated repository that is expanding in both size and quality.

KDE neon has announced the release of its latest version, KDE neon 20260101, which provides users immediate access to the features of KDE Plasma 6.5.4. Built on the robust foundation of Ubuntu's long-term support, this release delivers an unmodified experience of KDE applications, free from proprietary tweaks or patches. It is particularly appealing to enthusiasts eager to explore new software quickly and test upcoming KDE releases.

Archinstall 3.0.15 has been officially released, introducing a range of new features and enhancements that significantly improve the user experience of installing Arch Linux. This version includes smoother printing capabilities through CUPS installation support, enabling users to set up print servers effortlessly.

Bazzite Linux has launched its latest version, 43.20251231, which comes with a range of significant enhancements tailored for both gamers and general users. This release features integrated Steam support, improved HDR (High Dynamic Range) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) capabilities to elevate gaming experiences, alongside built-in community tools that simplify gaming and streaming processes. Notably, Lutris is pre-installed, allowing users to access games across multiple platforms such as Xbox Game Pass, EA App, Epic Games Store, GOG.com, itch.io, Rockstar's launcher, and Ubisoft Connect, without being limited to Steam.

Bazaar 0.7.0 has been officially released, introducing a number of significant improvements and fixes aimed at enhancing the user experience for its users. This latest version includes integrated support for Flathub accounts, allowing for more efficient bookmark management. The traditional star rating system has been streamlined into a simple bookmark feature, making it easier for users to save their favorite apps. A new "Only Show Verified" filter option grants users greater control over their app search results, while major app categories now have dedicated pages, improving navigation.

Manjaro Linux has released its second release candidate for version 25.1, named Anh-Linh. This update provides users with a refreshed system snapshot featuring the latest Plasma 6.5 series and GNOME 49 desktop environments. Notably, it includes the long-anticipated Cosmic release and numerous updates to essential system tools, such as systemd, mkinitcpio, and Grub.

The Liquorix Linux Kernel 6.18-2 has been officially released by Steven Barrett, presenting enhancements tailored to optimize desktop performance, particularly for multimedia and gaming environments. This latest iteration transitions the kernel from NO_HZ_IDLE to NO_HZ_FULL mode, significantly altering the system's idle management, which in turn influences performance and power consumption.

Linus Torvalds has announced the release of Linux Kernel 6.19-rc3, continuing the development of the Linux operating system. This latest release candidate focuses primarily on refining existing features, with significant updates to drivers for GPUs, sound cards, and USB devices. The emphasis in this release is on bug fixes rather than introducing new features. Notably, there are enhancements related to PowerPC processors and RISC-V systems, alongside minor adjustments to virtio tooling.

COSMIC Desktop is now officially available in SparkyLinux, offering users a high-performance, customizable desktop experience designed for versatility and efficiency. By default, COSMIC operates on a Wayland session, which enhances performance compared to older systems like X11, making it a modern choice for users seeking improved resource management and user experience.

Nobara Linux 43 was officially released on December 26, 2025, and it introduces a host of enhancements built upon the solid foundation of Fedora Linux 43. This version focuses on delivering an exceptional gaming and streaming experience right out of the box, eliminating the need for users to manually configure settings. The operating system comes preloaded with an optimized WINE setup, OBS Studio, and enabled third-party repositories, allowing users to dive directly into gaming or content creation without fussing over lengthy setup processes.

BuildAH Security Update for openSUSE Tumbleweed

KDE neon has announced the release of its latest version, dated December 25, 2025, which provides users with immediate access to the newest features of KDE Plasma 6.5.4. This distribution is based on Ubuntu's long-term support (LTS) and is designed for those who want the most unaltered versions of KDE applications and tools, allowing users to experience new software as soon as it is available, without the delays usually associated with community adjustments or proprietary modifications.

Steven Barrett has unveiled the Liquorix Linux Kernel 6.18-1, marking the first release based on the 6.18 series. This custom kernel is specifically engineered to enhance the desktop experience, particularly for multimedia and gaming applications, by leveraging performance capabilities that are often underutilized in standard distributions.

Manjaro Linux has officially released version 25.1 Anh-Linh RC1, featuring significant updates across its desktop environments and system components. This release provides users with the Plasma 6.5 series, GNOME 49, and introduces the long-anticipated Cosmic release.

elementary OS 8.1 Released: Key Enhancements and New Features

Linus Torvalds has announced the release of the second release candidate (RC2) for Linux Kernel 6.19. This stage in the development cycle typically indicates a period of stability leading up to the final release. The changes in this version primarily consist of updates to self-tests and documentation, alongside significant driver enhancements and architectural modifications. Notably, around 50% of the total patches focus on driver updates, while other fixes address longstanding issues, including the XFS_ERRTAG_FORCE_ZERO_RANGE problem affecting zoned systems.

The recent release of Qubes OS 4.3.0 marks a significant advancement in the operating system, enhancing security, usability, and performance. This version upgrades the base system to Fedora 41 and transitions the Xen Hypervisor to version 4.19, which is critical for the isolation model that defines Qubes' architecture.

Sparky Linux has announced the release of its new Special Edition ISO images, which include GameOver, Multimedia, and Rescue editions. These ISO images are now available for download and are built on the Debian 14 testing's "Forky" branch. This foundation allows users to enjoy a stable and updated experience with the latest packages from both Debian and Sparky's repositories. The new images come with the latest Linux kernel version 6.17, alongside recent updates to other kernels available in Sparky's blurry repositories, such as 6.18.2 and various Long-Term Support (LTS) options like 6.6.119-LTS.

Ondřej Surý has announced the release of updated PHP packages for Debian GNU/Linux, covering versions from 5.6 to 8.5. These updates are crucial for addressing security vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited. Specifically, the updates rectify three significant security issues: