Linux Just Changed FOREVER: KDE's New OS, Kernel DRAMA, and HUGE Updates!

Summary

This week in Linux brings a whirlwind of updates and innovations! Linux 6.18 introduces the game-changing 'Sheaves' memory feature, while LKRG hits version 1.0 for enhanced kernel security. Distros shine with Linux Mint 22.2 'Zara', Debian 13.1, and Linux Lite 7.6 rolling out fresh features and stability improvements. Desktop environments are evolving too, with GNOME 49 RC re-enabling X11 support, KDE Linux debuting in alpha, and KDE Plasma 6.5 enhancing performance. Hardware support expands with NVIDIA and AMD driver updates, high-speed webcams, and continued legacy support. Community highlights include new tools like Shimmer and exciting projects like KDE Linux and Pi Network's Linux node progress.

Takeaways

• 🖥️ Linux 6.18 introduces 'Sheaves', a smarter memory allocation system for improved performance and efficiency on multi-core processors.
• 🔒 Linux Kernel Runtime Guard (LKRG) 1.0.0 reaches stability, providing real-time integrity checks and exploit detection for enhanced security.
• 🆕 Linux Mint 22.2 'Zara' is released with LTS support until 2029, featuring desktop improvements, the new Fingwit fingerprint app, and better theming support.
• 🐧 Debian 13.1 is out with bug fixes and security updates, while Linux Lite 7.6 offers a lightweight experience for older hardware or minimalistic setups.
• ⚡ GNOME 49 Release Candidate re-enables X11 support in GDM by default due to Wayland compatibility issues.
• 🌟 KDE Linux Alpha is announced as a new OS with an immutable base, kde-builder and Flatpak support, showcasing KDE software capabilities.
• 🎨 KDE Plasma 6.5 development includes GPU underlays in KWin for performance improvements and more granular Flatpak permission controls.
• 🖥️ Hardware support updates include NVIDIA driver 580.82.07 with Smooth Motion for RTX 40 series, Nouveau driver stability fixes, and AMDGPU improvements for power and display management.
• 📹 Linux 6.18 kernel will support next-gen eUSB2V2 webcams, enabling high-resolution video at double USB 2.0 speeds.
• ⚠️ Security alert: CVE-2025-39733 is a privilege escalation vulnerability affecting kernels up to 6.15.9 and 6.16.0, highlighting the importance of updates.
• 🎉 Community highlights include KDE Linux Alpha, Shimmer utility for device LEDs, Odoo free ERP apps, and Pi Network progress with Linux node support and App Studio.
• 🚫 Mozilla confirms the end of Firefox support for 32-bit Linux systems in September 2026, marking the transition to a 64-bit future.

Q & A

What is the 'Sheaves' feature in Linux 6.18 and why is it important?

'Sheaves' is a new memory allocation system in Linux 6.18 for the SLUB allocator. It introduces per-CPU caches called 'sheaves' and per-NUMA-node caches called 'barns', providing faster and more efficient memory allocation, recycling, and pre-allocation for tasks that require low latency.

Who is spearheading the development of the 'Sheaves' feature?

The 'Sheaves' feature is being spearheaded by SUSE engineer Vlastimil Babka.

What is Linux Kernel Runtime Guard (LKRG) and what does its 1.0.0 release signify?

LKRG is a kernel module that provides real-time integrity checking and exploit detection. The 1.0.0 release signifies that LKRG is now stable and ready for wider adoption.

What was Linus Torvalds' response to AI-generated code submissions in the kernel?

Linus Torvalds expressed frustration with low-quality AI-generated code submissions, stating 'Can we please stop this automated idiocy?', indicating stricter review and rejection of such patches in the future.

Which Linux kernel versions were affected by the CVE-2025-39733 vulnerability?

CVE-2025-39733 affected Linux kernels up to versions 6.15.9 and 6.16.0. It is a privilege escalation vulnerability.

What are some notable features of Linux Mint 22.2 'Zara'?

Linux Mint 22.2 'Zara' includes LTS support until 2029, Linux kernel 6.14, desktop improvements like rounded Sticky Notes with Android sync, a blurred login screen with user avatars, Hypnotix theater mode, and the new fingerprint authentication app Fingwit.

What major change is coming with GNOME 49 Release Candidate?

GNOME 49 RC re-enables X11 support in GDM by default to ensure stability and compatibility while the final release approaches.

What is KDE Linux and how does it differ from traditional KDE Neon?

KDE Linux is a new operating system built by the KDE community. It features an immutable base OS, uses kde-builder and Flatpak instead of traditional package managers, and is a reference implementation showcasing KDE technologies, unlike KDE Neon which continues as a conventional KDE-focused distro.

What improvements did NVIDIA and AMD GPU drivers receive recently?

NVIDIA driver 580.82.07 added Smooth Motion support for RTX 40 series GPUs, while the Nouveau open-source driver received stability fixes. AMDGPU driver updates focus on power management and display stability for Linux 6.18.

Why is Firefox ending support for 32-bit Linux systems in 2026?

Mozilla will end Firefox support for 32-bit Linux systems in September 2026 to align with the industry's transition toward 64-bit systems, ensuring better performance and security.

What community projects were highlighted in this week’s Linux news?

Highlighted projects include the KDE Linux Alpha release, the Shimmer backlight and LED control utility, top free Odoo apps for Linux enterprise use, and the Pi Network’s Linux node and App Studio developments.

What new hardware support is coming with Linux 6.18?

Linux 6.18 is expected to support eUSB2V2 webcams, allowing data rates up to 4.8 Gb/s, enabling higher-resolution video for laptops and improved video call quality.