The KaOS team has released a new 2026.02. This Linux distribution is known for its KDE Plasma focus, but this release tests a different desktop setup while keeping its Qt-based design.

KaOS 2026.02 experiments with a new desktop

What’s New in KaOS 2026.02?

Test desktop environment

  • Plasma and KWin are not included on this ISO.
  • The system uses niri with the Noctalia shell and Quickshell on Qt 6.10.2.
  • A Wayland compositor manages windows and display. It replaces the traditional X11 approach.
  • Plasma 6 remains available in the repositories. This ISO supports wider testing.

Bootloader change

  • Limine is now the default bootloader.
  • Other UEFI boot choices remain available in the Calamares installer.

Core system updates

  • Linux kernel 6.18.10
  • GCC 15.2.1, Glibc 2.42, Binutils 2.45.1
  • Mesa 25.3.5, PipeWire 1.4.9, GStreamer 1.28
  • OpenSSH 10.2, Bash 5.3, CMake 4.2
  • ISO uses systemd 255.22; installed systems move to 257.10.

Installer and usability changes

  • Calamares no longer opens a browser as root on the welcome page.
  • Extra details now show through a QML drawer.
  • Automatic partitioning supports XFS, EXT4, BTRFS, and ZFS.
  • Default XFS uses CRC and finobt features for better file-system reliability.

Multimedia and display updates

  • phonon-mpv replaces VLC as the sound backend for full Qt6 support.
  • SDDM can run in Wayland mode.
  • Kjournald provides a GUI tool to view system logs.

Other notes

  • Croeso setup helper assists with common post-install settings.
  • Early CPU microcode updates are built into the kernel.
  • New artwork includes a custom icon theme.
  • Mirror and server support now comes from YourHostingSolutions after the shutdown of Fosshost.

Download

You can download the latest ISO from the official KaOS website. GPG signatures are available to verify file authenticity.

Download KaOS 2026.02

For further information on KaOS 2026.02, see the official release announcement on projects website.