SparkyLinux has announced the release of its new version, 2025.09, codenamed "Tiamat." This release builds upon the Debian "Forky" testing branch and incorporates the latest package updates from both Debian and Sparky testing repositories as of September 14, 2025. One of the standout features in this version is the upgraded Linux kernel, now at version 6.16.7, along with the availability of alternative kernels (6.12.47-LTS and 6.6.105-LTS) through Sparky repositories.
The Calamares installer has been updated to version 3.4.0, bringing the capability for encrypted disk installations, a significant enhancement that was not previously available. Additionally, users will find an updated version of Firefox (128.14.0-ESR) with an even newer version (143.0) accessible via Sparky repositories. There have also been changes to default news aggregators: KDE users will now utilize Akregator for RSS feeds instead of QuiteRSS, while LXQt users will use Liferea in place of QuiteRSS.
This release sees the removal of GCC 14 in favor of GCC 15, ensuring that users have the latest compiler tools. All graphical components of Sparky have been updated to their testing versions for this release. It's important for users to note that installation on UEFI systems requires an active internet connection and can be performed using the Calamares installer, found under the "Sparky Installer" menu icon. Older systems with 64-bit processors and BIOS can utilize the CLI installer by running 'sudo sparky-installer.'
SparkyLinux 2025.09 is available in six different variants: LXQt, KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI (which uses Openbox), and MinimalCLI (text mode). This variety allows users to choose the desktop environment that best suits their needs. For further details, users can refer to the official announcement.
In summary, SparkyLinux 2025.09 not only introduces significant updates in software and features but also enhances security and user experience, especially with the inclusion of encrypted installation options and the latest kernel updates. This makes it a compelling choice for both new and experienced Linux users looking for a robust and flexible operating system
The Calamares installer has been updated to version 3.4.0, bringing the capability for encrypted disk installations, a significant enhancement that was not previously available. Additionally, users will find an updated version of Firefox (128.14.0-ESR) with an even newer version (143.0) accessible via Sparky repositories. There have also been changes to default news aggregators: KDE users will now utilize Akregator for RSS feeds instead of QuiteRSS, while LXQt users will use Liferea in place of QuiteRSS.
This release sees the removal of GCC 14 in favor of GCC 15, ensuring that users have the latest compiler tools. All graphical components of Sparky have been updated to their testing versions for this release. It's important for users to note that installation on UEFI systems requires an active internet connection and can be performed using the Calamares installer, found under the "Sparky Installer" menu icon. Older systems with 64-bit processors and BIOS can utilize the CLI installer by running 'sudo sparky-installer.'
SparkyLinux 2025.09 is available in six different variants: LXQt, KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI (which uses Openbox), and MinimalCLI (text mode). This variety allows users to choose the desktop environment that best suits their needs. For further details, users can refer to the official announcement.
In summary, SparkyLinux 2025.09 not only introduces significant updates in software and features but also enhances security and user experience, especially with the inclusion of encrypted installation options and the latest kernel updates. This makes it a compelling choice for both new and experienced Linux users looking for a robust and flexible operating system
SparkyLinux 2025.09 released
A new version of SparkyLinux, codenamed "Tiamat," has been released with updated packages from Debian and Sparky testing repositories. This release features an upgraded Linux kernel (6.16.7) and an updated Calamares installer that supports encrypted disk installations. The latest version includes newer versions of Firefox and GCC, as well as replaced news aggregators for KDE and LXQt users. SparkyLinux 2025.09 is available in six variants, including LXQt, KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI, and MinimalCLI.
