The CachyOS team announced the release of a new ISO snapshot, enhancing support for both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards. This update features the latest KDE Plasma 6.2.3 desktop environment and is powered by the Linux kernel version 6.11.7.
One of the key improvements is the backporting of the THP Shrinker from Linux kernel 6.13, aimed at reducing memory usage when transparent huge pages are set to “always.” Additionally, the update introduces the AMD Cache Optimizer to enhance gaming performance and includes AMD-pstate performance fixes specifically for Strix Point laptops. Support for the RDNA3 family of AMD GPUs has also been improved.
For users with NVIDIA graphics cards, the release addresses a significant issue that facilitates proper functioning of DLSS Frame Generation. In a bid to streamline user experience, the update automatically disables the GSP (GPU System Processor) firmware if the proprietary NVIDIA driver is manually selected, to accommodate users who may switch due to GSP Firmware issues. The nvidia-powerd service is now enabled by default for supported laptops.
CachyOS retains KDE Plasma as its default desktop environment, offering an aesthetic and customizable experience. The new ISO also includes the kdeplasma-addons package, enhancing desktop usability with various add-ons.
The CachyOS Handheld Edition has received updates to notify users trying to install it on regular PCs rather than handheld devices. Support improvements for the Rog Ally X gaming handheld have been made as well.
The release features an updated Calamares universal installer, which enhances partitioning capabilities—especially with a Swap partition. It has also reverted the “3-way” partitioning of rEFInd for better usability.
To enhance the installation process, a new script checks if users are installing the latest ISO, alerting them if they are using an outdated version to avoid potential issues. Lastly, fixes have been included to address timing problems in configurations with displays set to 5120x1440x240.
Users can download the latest CachyOS release from the official website, while existing users can easily update by running the sudo pacman -Syu command or via the Plasma Discover graphical package manager.
For more information, visit the CachyOS release announcement.