20# Weekly Linux and Tech Update

  • Linux Mint
    • 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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *