Linux Journal

by George Whittaker

Intel is once again investing in Linux development. The company has recently posted several job openings aimed at strengthening its Linux graphics driver and GPU software teams, signaling continued interest in improving Intel hardware support on the open-source platform.

For Linux users, especially gamers and developers, this could mean faster improvements to Intel’s graphics stack and stronger support for modern workloads.

New Roles Focused on Linux Graphics

Intel has listed multiple GPU Software Development Engineer positions, many of which specifically focus on Linux graphics technologies. These roles involve working on the full graphics stack, including firmware, kernel drivers, and user-space components used by applications and games.

The responsibilities for these positions include:

• Developing and optimizing Intel GPU drivers for Linux

• Improving the Linux graphics stack, including kernel DRM drivers and Mesa components

• Working with graphics APIs and tools used by modern applications

• Ensuring compatibility across desktop, workstation, and data-center hardware

The job listings also emphasize experience with C/C++ development and the Linux kernel graphics ecosystem, highlighting the technical depth required for these roles.

Linux Gaming Is Part of the Plan

One of the more notable details from the job postings is the mention of Linux gaming technologies such as Wine and Proton. These compatibility layers allow Windows games to run on Linux, making them central to platforms like SteamOS and the Steam Deck.

Intel’s focus on these tools suggests the company wants its GPUs to perform well not just in enterprise workloads but also in gaming environments. That aligns with the growing popularity of Linux gaming driven by:

• Valve’s Proton compatibility layer

• Vulkan-based graphics APIs

• The success of devices like the Steam Deck

Beyond Gaming: HPC and Data Center Work

While gaming support is part of the focus, the hiring effort isn’t limited to consumer graphics. Intel is also recruiting engineers for areas such as:

• High-performance computing (HPC)

• AI and machine-learning workloads

• Middleware development for supercomputing systems

• Cloud and data-center GPU optimization

These roles indicate Intel’s broader strategy to strengthen Linux across multiple sectors, from desktops and laptops to supercomputers and cloud infrastructure.

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by George Whittaker

The developers behind AerynOS have released AerynOS 2026.02 Alpha, the latest development snapshot of the independent Linux distribution previously known as Serpent OS. This new release continues the project’s rapid evolution, bringing updated packages, improved build tools, and new installation options while the system remains in an early testing stage.

Although still labeled as an alpha-quality release, the new ISO gives enthusiasts and developers a chance to explore the direction AerynOS is taking as it builds a modern Linux platform from scratch.

A Modern Atomic Approach

AerynOS aims to rethink how Linux distributions handle updates and package management. The project focuses on atomic-style updates, meaning system changes are applied as a complete transaction rather than individual package installs. This approach helps reduce the risk of partially completed updates leaving a system in a broken state.

Unlike some atomic distributions, however, AerynOS does not rely on an immutable filesystem, allowing users to retain flexibility and customization while still benefiting from safer update behavior.

Updated Desktop Environments

The 2026.02 alpha release ships with several modern desktop environment options:

• GNOME 49.4 as the default desktop

• COSMIC 1.0.8, System76’s emerging desktop environment

• KDE Plasma 6.6.1 available as an alternative session

These updates provide users with multiple modern desktop choices while ensuring compatibility with the latest frameworks and desktop technologies.

New Core Software and Components

AerynOS 2026.02 also brings a large batch of software updates across the system stack. Some of the notable versions included in the release are:

• Linux kernel 6.18.15 LTS

• Firefox 148

• PipeWire 1.6

• Wine 11.3

• Waybar 0.15

• Mesa/Nesa graphics drivers 26.x

Together, these updates ensure that the development snapshot reflects a modern Linux software ecosystem while improving compatibility with newer hardware.

Improved Development Tooling

A significant portion of the February development cycle focused on improving the distribution’s internal tooling:

• Moss, the package manager, has been optimized for faster performance.

• Boulder, the package build system, now automates more recipe creation and version handling.

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by George Whittaker

The Armbian project has released Armbian 26.02, the latest update to the lightweight Linux distribution designed specifically for ARM and RISC-V single-board computers (SBCs). Known for its stability and hardware optimization, Armbian continues to evolve with improved hardware support, new desktop options, and updated core components in this release.

A Linux Distribution Tailored for SBCs

Armbian is built on top of Debian or Ubuntu, providing optimized system images for single-board computers such as Orange Pi, Banana Pi, and ODROID devices. The project focuses on stability, performance, and long-term maintenance for embedded and development boards.

With the 26.02 release, the developers continue that mission by refining support for modern hardware platforms and improving the overall software stack.

Powered by Linux 6.18 LTS

One of the biggest upgrades in Armbian 26.02 is the transition to Linux kernel 6.18 LTS, which brings improved driver support, performance enhancements, and better compatibility for newer SBC hardware.

The newer kernel helps ensure that Armbian remains compatible with evolving chipsets while maintaining stability across its supported devices.

New Board Support

This release expands Armbian’s hardware ecosystem with support for several new boards, including:

• SpacemiT MusePi Pro

• Radxa Rock 4D

• Orange Pi RV2

• ODROID M2

These additions reflect Armbian’s ongoing focus on supporting emerging ARM and RISC-V development boards used by hobbyists, developers, and embedded system builders.

Desktop Improvements

Armbian 26.02 also introduces expanded desktop options:

• RISC-V XFCE desktop images for supported RISC-V systems

• Restored KDE Neon desktop builds

• Updated desktop targets based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

These changes give users more flexibility when choosing between lightweight environments or more full-featured desktop setups.

Enhancements to Armbian Tools

The Armbian ecosystem itself has also received improvements. The Armbian Imager utility, used to flash OS images to SBC storage devices, now features:

• Faster image decompression

• Code signing for improved security on macOS and Windows

• AI-assisted translation support

• A new settings panel with additional developer options

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by George Whittaker

Excitement in the open-source world is rising as the Linux kernel project moves toward the next major release: Linux kernel 7.0. While a major version number might sound like a dramatic overhaul, the reality is a lot more steady progress, and that’s part of what makes the Linux kernel so reliable and trusted. The first release candidate (RC1) for Linux 7.0 has already been published, and developers are entering the final stretch toward a stable release expected around mid-April 2026.

An Evolution, Not a Revolution

Linus Torvalds, the creator and lead maintainer of the Linux kernel, officially confirmed that the next version after Linux 6.19 will be dubbed Linux 7.0. In the announcement, he made clear that the jump to “7.0” isn’t tied to any monumental architectural upheaval, it’s a practical naming decision made partly to keep version numbers manageable.

That tradition continues a long-standing pattern: kernel series are often numbered until they reach higher minor versions (like 6.19), and then the major number increments, even if the changes are incremental and largely additive rather than breaking.

Inside the 7.0 Development Cycle

The Linux 7.0 cycle opened with the merge window, during which new code from contributors around the world is accepted. With the release candidate phase now underway, the focus has turned toward stabilization and testing.

The 7.0-rc1 announcement notes that this cycle saw a “smooth” merge window with relatively few major boot failures reported on the lead developer’s own test machines, a good sign for the kernel’s broad hardware support.

Expected Improvements

While the final changelog for the stable 7.0 kernel will only be known when it ships, several themes stand out from early previews and reporting:

1. Broad Hardware Enablement

Driver updates make up a significant portion of the changes so far, helping Linux support the latest CPUs and SoCs from vendors like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm. Early testing indicates enablement for new families such as Intel Nova Lake and AMD Zen 6, which will be important for next-generation laptops, desktops, and servers.

2. Performance and Responsiveness

Kernel maintainers and community reports suggest that performance improvements are part of the 7.0 trend. Although specifics are still emerging, the kernel’s scheduler and memory management subsystems tend to see ongoing optimization as workloads diversify.

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by George Whittaker Introduction

The Gentoo Linux project has begun transitioning parts of its infrastructure away from GitHub and toward Codeberg, a Git hosting platform built on open-source principles. The move reflects growing concerns within parts of the open-source community about centralized hosting, proprietary AI integrations, and long-term platform independence.

While Gentoo has used GitHub for collaboration and code hosting in recent years, maintainers are now signaling a preference for a platform that aligns more closely with their philosophical roots.

Why the Shift?

One of the underlying motivations behind the move involves concerns around Microsoft’s expanding integration of AI tools like Copilot into GitHub’s ecosystem. While Copilot is optional and not mandatory for users, its presence has sparked debate within open-source communities about:

• Code usage for AI model training

• Transparency around data handling

• Vendor control over open-source workflows

• The long-term independence of community projects

Gentoo, a distribution known for its strong emphasis on freedom, customization, and user control, appears to be taking a cautious approach by diversifying its infrastructure.

Why Codeberg?

Codeberg is a community-driven Git hosting service powered by Forgejo, a fully open-source Git platform. Unlike GitHub, Codeberg operates as a non-profit organization and positions itself as an ethical alternative focused on transparency and sustainability.

Key characteristics include:

• Open-source infrastructure

• No proprietary AI tooling baked into the platform

• Community governance model

• Emphasis on privacy and minimal tracking

For a project like Gentoo, deeply rooted in open-source philosophy, these factors carry weight.

What This Means for Gentoo Users

For end users, the transition may not immediately change how Gentoo is installed or maintained. However, it could affect:

• Where source code repositories are officially hosted

• Where developers submit patches and pull requests

• Contribution workflows for maintainers

Over time, the move could also reduce dependency on large corporate platforms, ensuring Gentoo retains autonomy over its infrastructure.

A Broader Trend in Open Source

Gentoo is not alone in reassessing its hosting platforms. Across the open-source world, projects have increasingly explored alternatives such as:

• Codeberg

• SourceHut

• Self-hosted Git solutions

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by George Whittaker

The open-source wearable ecosystem just received a major upgrade. AsteroidOS 2.0 has officially been released, bringing new life to Linux-based smartwatches and giving aging hardware a fresh purpose. Built by a passionate community of developers, AsteroidOS continues to push the idea that wearable technology can remain open, customizable, and free from vendor lock-in.

For users who prefer control over their devices, and for those with older smartwatches gathering dust, AsteroidOS 2.0 represents a compelling alternative to proprietary smartwatch platforms.

What Is AsteroidOS?

AsteroidOS is an open-source operating system designed specifically for smartwatches. Originally developed as a replacement for discontinued or unsupported Android Wear devices, the project has grown into a full Linux-based wearable platform.

Unlike closed smartwatch systems, AsteroidOS emphasizes:

• Privacy-first design

• Minimal background tracking

• Full user control

• Community-driven development

It runs on supported legacy devices and allows users to repurpose smartwatches that manufacturers have long abandoned.

What’s New in AsteroidOS 2.0

Version 2.0 is one of the most significant updates in the project’s history. While the philosophy remains the same, this release introduces meaningful improvements across usability, performance, and compatibility.

Modernized Interface

AsteroidOS 2.0 brings a refreshed UI that feels smoother and more intuitive. Navigation between apps and watch faces is more fluid, and animations have been optimized for improved responsiveness on older hardware.

Improved Power Management

Battery life is critical on wearables. The new release refines power-saving behaviors and background process handling, helping extend usage time between charges, especially important for devices with aging batteries.

Enhanced Bluetooth Connectivity

Connectivity improvements allow more reliable pairing with companion apps, notifications, and syncing features. Stability and compatibility with modern smartphones have been strengthened.

Updated Core Stack

Under the hood, AsteroidOS 2.0 ships with updated components from the Linux ecosystem, ensuring better hardware compatibility and security fixes.

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by George Whittaker

The Document Foundation has officially released LibreOffice 26.2, the latest major update to the widely used open-source office suite. With improvements spanning performance, user interface refinements, document compatibility, and accessibility, this version continues LibreOffice’s mission to provide a powerful, community-driven alternative to proprietary office software.

LibreOffice 26.2 is available for Linux, Windows, and macOS, offering consistent functionality across platforms while keeping full control in the hands of users.

What’s New in LibreOffice 26.2

While LibreOffice updates often focus on incremental refinement rather than radical redesign, version 26.2 introduces several meaningful enhancements that improve daily workflows.

Improved Performance and Stability

Performance remains a priority. LibreOffice 26.2 includes:

• Faster document loading, especially for large spreadsheets and presentations

• Reduced memory usage in complex Calc files

• Improved stability when handling heavily formatted documents

These optimizations make the suite feel more responsive across both modern systems and older hardware.

Enhanced Microsoft Office Compatibility

Compatibility continues to improve with each release. LibreOffice 26.2 delivers:

• More accurate rendering of DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX files

• Better support for advanced formatting and tracked changes

• Improved handling of embedded objects and charts

For users collaborating with Microsoft Office users, these refinements reduce formatting surprises and make document exchange smoother.

Refined User Interface

LibreOffice 26.2 builds upon its modern UI framework with:

• Polished icon themes and improved scaling on high-resolution displays

• Better dark mode integration across platforms

• Smoother transitions in NotebookBar layouts

• Improved accessibility for keyboard navigation and screen readers

The result is a cleaner, more cohesive experience without disrupting long-time users.

Writer Improvements

LibreOffice Writer gains several practical enhancements:

• More reliable footnote and endnote management

• Improved table formatting controls

• Expanded language and grammar tool integration

These updates benefit users creating academic papers, reports, and long-form documents.

Calc Enhancements

Spreadsheet users will notice:

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by George Whittaker

In a development that has energized the Linux gaming community, GOG (Good Old Games) has officially confirmed that it is working on native Linux support. While GOG has long provided Linux installers for select titles, this announcement signals something more substantial: deeper platform integration and a renewed commitment to Linux as a first-class gaming environment.

For Linux users who value DRM-free software and ownership rights, this could be a significant turning point.

Why This Matters

GOG has built its reputation on offering DRM-free games that users truly own, free from online activation requirements and restrictive launchers. However, Linux users have historically faced a mixed experience:

• Some games included native Linux builds

• Others required manual setup through Wine or Proton

• The GOG Galaxy client itself lacked native Linux support

While community tools like Heroic Games Launcher and Lutris filled the gap, the absence of official Linux support for the Galaxy ecosystem left many users dependent on workarounds.

Now, with GOG confirming active development of native Linux support, that gap may finally begin to close.

What Native Support Could Include

Although full details have yet to be finalized, “native support” could realistically mean several improvements:

• An official GOG Galaxy client for Linux

• Better integration with Proton or Wine when needed

• Unified cloud saves and achievements on Linux

• Streamlined game installation and updates

• Official support channels for Linux users

If implemented properly, this would allow Linux gamers to enjoy the same ecosystem experience as Windows users without third-party bridges.

The Timing Makes Sense

The announcement comes at a moment when Linux gaming is stronger than ever:

• The Steam Deck has normalized Linux as a gaming platform

• Proton compatibility has reached impressive levels

• Vulkan drivers and Mesa development continue advancing

• Distros like Bazzite and Nobara are built specifically for gaming

With more gamers exploring Linux in 2026, GOG’s move may be both strategic and overdue.

What It Means for the Linux Gaming Ecosystem

If GOG delivers robust native support, several ripple effects could follow:

• Increased confidence from developers to release Linux builds

• More competition in the Linux game storefront space

• Improved DRM-free game adoption among Linux users

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by George Whittaker

The Linux security landscape just reached an important milestone. Linux Kernel Runtime Guard (LKRG) has officially hit version 1.0, marking its transition from a long-running experimental project into a mature, production-ready security tool. For administrators and security-conscious users, this release reinforces LKRG’s role as a powerful additional layer of defense for Linux systems.

After years of development, testing, and real-world use, the 1.0 release signals confidence in LKRG’s stability, compatibility, and long-term direction.

What Is LKRG?

LKRG is a loadable kernel module designed to protect the Linux kernel at runtime. Instead of relying solely on compile-time hardening or static security features, LKRG actively monitors the kernel while the system is running. Its goal is to detect unauthorized changes, suspicious behavior, and exploit attempts that target kernel internals.

Because it operates at runtime, LKRG complements existing protections like SELinux, AppArmor, and kernel hardening options rather than replacing them.

Why the 1.0 Release Matters

Reaching version 1.0 is more than a symbolic version bump. It reflects years of refinement and signals that the project has reached a level of maturity suitable for broader adoption.

With this release, LKRG offers:

• Stable behavior across a wide range of kernel versions

• Improved reliability under real-world workloads

• Cleaner internal architecture and reduced overhead

• Confidence for system administrators deploying it in production environments

For security tooling, especially something operating inside the kernel, stability and predictability are critical, and the 1.0 milestone acknowledges that standard.

How LKRG Protects the Kernel

At a high level, LKRG continuously checks the integrity of critical kernel structures and execution paths. It looks for signs that something has altered kernel memory, process credentials, or execution flow in unexpected ways.

When suspicious activity is detected, LKRG can:

• Log warnings or alerts

• Block the offending action

• Trigger defensive responses based on configuration

This makes it particularly useful for detecting privilege-escalation exploits and post-exploitation activity that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Who Should Consider Using LKRG?

LKRG is especially relevant for:

• Servers and cloud hosts exposed to untrusted workloads

• Enterprise systems with strict security requirements

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by George Whittaker

The open-source community is celebrating a well-deserved recognition. Greg Kroah-Hartman, one of the most influential figures in the Linux ecosystem, has been awarded the European Open Source Award, honoring decades of sustained contributions that have shaped Linux into the stable, trusted platform it is today.

For anyone who relies on Linux, whether on servers, desktops, embedded devices, or cloud infrastructure, this award highlights the quiet but essential work that keeps the ecosystem reliable.

A Steward of Stability

Greg Kroah-Hartman is best known for his role as the maintainer of the Linux kernel’s stable branches. While new kernel features often grab headlines, the stable kernels are where real-world systems live. They receive carefully vetted fixes for security issues, regressions, and bugs, without introducing disruptive changes.

That responsibility requires deep technical knowledge, discipline, and trust from the community. Kroah-Hartman has carried it for years, ensuring that Linux remains dependable across millions of systems worldwide.

Beyond the Stable Kernel

His impact extends far beyond stable releases. Over the years, Kroah-Hartman has contributed heavily to:

• Driver development, helping hardware vendors integrate cleanly with Linux

• Kernel infrastructure improvements, making long-term maintenance sustainable

• Developer documentation, including the widely respected Linux Kernel in a Nutshell

• Mentorship, guiding new contributors through the notoriously complex kernel process

These efforts help keep Linux open not just in license, but in practice, accessible to new developers and maintainable at scale.

Why This Award Matters

The European Open Source Award recognizes individuals whose work benefits society through openness, collaboration, and technical excellence. Kroah-Hartman’s work exemplifies that mission.

Linux doesn’t succeed because of flashy features alone. It succeeds because:

• Bugs are fixed responsibly

• Security issues are handled quietly and quickly

• Compatibility is preserved across years and hardware generations

Those outcomes don’t happen by accident. They’re the result of sustained, meticulous stewardship, exactly the kind of work this award celebrates.

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by George Whittaker

In an era where security threats continually evolve, protecting the heart of an operating system, the kernel, has never been more critical. One tool gaining traction in the Linux world is the Linux Kernel Runtime Guard (LKRG), a specialized security module designed to detect and respond to attacks targeting the kernel while the system is running. This project recently reached its first stable milestone with version 1.0.0, marking a major step forward for runtime protection on Linux systems.

What Is LKRG?

LKRG (short for Linux Kernel Runtime Guard) is a loadable kernel module that continuously monitors the health and integrity of the Linux kernel while it’s running. Unlike many security features that rely on compile-time patches or static defenses, LKRG acts at runtime, watching for signs of unauthorized changes or exploit attempts and taking configurable action when something suspicious is detected.

Because LKRG is a module rather than a patch to the kernel source, it can be built and used across a variety of distributions and kernel versions without needing to recompile the core kernel itself. It supports a wide range of architectures, including x86-64, 32-bit x86, ARM64, and 32-bit ARM, and has been tested on kernels from older enterprise releases all the way up to recent mainline versions.

How LKRG Works

At its core, LKRG performs runtime integrity checks on critical parts of the kernel and system state. It validates the kernel’s code, data, and metadata against expected values and monitors for unexpected changes that could be indicative of an exploit. The module also watches key process attributes and credentials to help spot unauthorized privilege escalation attempts.

Unlike compile-time defenses such as address space layout randomization (ASLR) or static code hardening, LKRG is designed to observe and react while the kernel is executing, a concept sometimes referred to as “post-detection” security. This complements other layers of defense rather than replacing them.

Version 1.0: A Milestone Release

After several years of development, with the first public release appearing back in 2018, LKRG has finally reached its 1.0 release, signaling maturity and broader real-world readiness. This milestone brings a suite of improvements, including:

• Broader Kernel Compatibility: Support extending to recent kernel series such as Linux 6.17, while maintaining compatibility with older, long-lived versions.

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by George Whittaker

Mozilla has taken a notable step toward improving Firefox distribution on Linux. An official Firefox RPM package is now available directly from Mozilla for Fedora-style distributions, including Fedora, RHEL-compatible systems, and related derivatives. This move gives users a new, upstream-supported option for installing and maintaining Firefox without relying solely on distro-maintained builds.

What’s Changed

Until now, users on RPM-based systems typically installed Firefox through their distribution’s repositories. While those packages are usually well-maintained, they can sometimes lag behind Mozilla’s release schedule or include distro-specific patches.

With the new official RPM, Mozilla provides:

• A Firefox build maintained directly by Mozilla

• Faster access to new releases and security updates

• A consistent Firefox experience across RPM-based distros

• Reduced dependency on downstream packaging delays

This mirrors the approach Mozilla already uses for official DEB packages and tarball releases, bringing parity to RPM-based ecosystems.

Who Benefits Most

This new packaging option is especially useful for:

• Fedora users who want Firefox updates the moment Mozilla releases them

• Developers and testers who need predictable, upstream Firefox behavior

• Enterprise or workstation users running Fedora-derived systems who prefer vendor-supplied binaries

• Users who want to avoid Flatpak or Snap for their browser

Distributions that prioritize stability over immediacy may still ship older versions, but the official RPM gives users a clear choice.

How It Works

Mozilla hosts a signed RPM repository that integrates cleanly with dnf-based systems. Once added, Firefox updates arrive through the standard system update process, just like any other RPM package.

Key characteristics include:

• GPG-signed packages from Mozilla

• Automatic updates via dnf upgrade

• No repackaging or third-party rebuilds

• Compatibility with Fedora and compatible RPM distros

Users can choose between the distro-provided Firefox or Mozilla’s upstream RPM without conflict, as long as only one source is enabled.

Why This Matters for Linux Users

This change reflects a broader trend: upstream projects taking more responsibility for how their software reaches users. For Firefox, that means:

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by George Whittaker Introduction

Gaming on Linux has never been better. Thanks to advances in compatibility layers like Proton, drivers, and distro-level optimizations, Linux now supports thousands of games, from AAA titles to indie favorites, with performance that rivals Windows in many cases. As we head into 2026, certain Linux distributions have risen to the top as the most gamer-friendly, offering build-ins, drivers, and tooling that make playing on open-source systems smoother and more fun.

In this article, we’ll look at the best Linux gaming distros for 2026, what sets each one apart, and who they’re best suited for, whether you’re a seasoned Linux gamer or someone switching from Windows or macOS.

1. SteamOS (SteamOS 5 / “Holo”) Why It’s Great

SteamOS remains the top choice if games are your priority. Developed by Valve, SteamOS is designed specifically for gaming hardware and integrates tightly with:

• Steam and Proton for Windows game compatibility

• Controller-first navigation, perfect for living-room play

• Competitive performance out of the box

• Fast boot and automatic updates

SteamOS continues evolving with better hardware support, especially for handheld PCs and Steam Deck-style form factors.

Best For

• Dedicated gaming PCs

• Steam Deck and SteamOS handhelds

• Users who want a console-like experience

2. Pop!_OS (Gaming Edition) Why It’s Great

Created by System76, Pop!_OS is known for a smooth performance-oriented desktop and excellent driver support. The Gaming Edition (or the gaming-optimized install profile) comes with:

• Automatic NVIDIA and AMD driver detection

• Integrated Proton and Steam packages

• Built-in support for auto-tiling and hybrid graphics

• Excellent keyboard/mouse + gamepad support

Pop!_OS also excels on laptops with hybrid GPUs because of its dedicated power profiles and intelligent GPU switching.

Best For

• Desktop gamers who want a traditional desktop + gaming setup

• Users with NVIDIA GPUs

• Hybrid GPU laptops

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