KDE Plasma 6.4 has introduced an important update with the release of version 6.4.1, which addresses a potential risk for photosensitive users. The new version disables the ‘highlight window’ effect that was defaulted in the Task Manager thumbnails, a feature that could cause screen flickering at certain frequencies that might induce seizures.
While KDE Plasma was not particularly flashy, the specific implementation of the highlight effect created conditions under which full-screen flickering could occur. KDE addressed this by turning off the effect to promote user safety. Nate Graham from KDE explained that until a better solution is implemented, it is safer to disable the effect, as it could cause discomfort even for users without photosensitivity.
Additionally, the update has modified the ‘visual bell’ feature. Some users experienced screen flashing if too many bell notifications were sent simultaneously, posing a risk for photosensitive individuals. The update throttles this feature to enhance usability while minimizing risks.
Other improvements in Plasma 6.4.1 include:
- Enhanced text label contrast to comply with WCAG AA standards.
- User interface adjustments in the Discover software center.
- Improvements to the window list widget menu functionality.
This ongoing attention to accessibility reflects KDE’s commitment to complying with the European Accessibility Act 2025, which mandates that digital products and services be made accessible to all users. While discussions around accessibility often emphasize the needs of specific groups, it is essential to recognize that features designed for accessibility benefit everyone. Improved visibility and usability tools enhance the overall user experience, making software more effective for a wider audience.
The next point release for KDE Plasma, version 6.4.2, is expected in early July 2025, promising continued developments in accessibility and usability features.