Disabling unverified flatpaks in the software store by default: Ensuring more secure software installations.
Improved software manager with faster loading times: Enhancing user experience with quicker access to software.
Anonymous tracking implemented to identify bottlenecks: Using data to optimize performance.
Moving away from GNOME apps to build their own GTK versions: Developing proprietary GTK apps for better integration.
Windows Recall Feature
New feature allows taking screenshots of the screen regularly and passing them to an AI: Aimed at improving user experience through AI analysis.
Feature has been hacked, and Microsoft has decided not to enable it by default due to backlash: Security concerns have led to this feature being disabled by default.
KDE
Asking for community feedback on goals for the next 2 years: Engaging users in the development process.
Open process for submitting and voting on goals: Promoting a transparent and democratic approach to setting development priorities.
Elementary OS 8
Will offer a choice between X11 or Wayland in the lock screen: Providing users with flexibility in display server selection.
Doc will gain the ability to launch ABS directly: Enhancing functionality and ease of access.
System settings have been improved with a more visual design: Making the interface more user-friendly.
Will offer Flathub as a remote, allowing for more applications to be installed out of the box: Expanding the software ecosystem available to users.
Thunderbird
Making good progress on several features, including exchange support and system tray support on Linux: Improving compatibility and functionality.
Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool
Kaspersky has introduced a new virus removal tool for Linux, called KVRT
The tool is a standalone scanner that detects and removes malware, adware, and other threats
The tool is free, but not a real-time protection tool
BlendOS
BlendOS is a unique Linux distribution that allows users to install packages from multiple distros, including Arch, CentOS, Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu
The OS is immutable and uses atomic updates
BlendOS is not for beginners, but is suitable for intermediate or enthusiast users
Kali Linux and Parrot OS
Kali Linux 2024.2 has been released, with updates to the desktop environments and new tools for ethical hacking and penetration testing
Parrot OS 6.1 has also been released, with kernel updates, improved support for Raspberry Pi, and new tools for ethical hacking and penetration testing
Linux Mint
Linux Mint is making changes to their software manager, including faster startup times and improved handling of multiple formats
The team is also adding security safeguards for unverified Flatpaks from the Flathub
NixOS
NixOS 24.05 has been released, with a new LTS kernel, updates to desktop environments, and a new option to install without Perl
The distro uses an immutable design and atomic update model, and has a declarative configuration system
Purism
Purism has released an investor report, claiming that all crowdfunded products have been delivered and that they have turned profitable
However, some customers have reported not receiving their phones or refunds
The company is also promoting their Liberty phone, which is assembled in the USA, but has a high margin due to the use of old hardware
Krita and Phoronix
Krita, a digital painting tool, is celebrating its 25th anniversary
Phoronix, a website providing Linux news, hardware reviews, and benchmarks, is celebrating its 20th anniversary
Gaming News
Nvidia users will get support for using the command line to pass options and interact with the GPU system processor firmware in kernel 6.1: Enhancing control and customization for Nvidia GPU users.
New Vulkan driver for Apple silicon Macs, called Honey Crisp, has been developed: Boosting gaming performance on Apple silicon Macs.
Linux has passed the 2% market share on Steam, with the Steam Deck and Steam OS contributing to the growth: Marking a significant milestone for Linux gaming.