With the upcoming release of KDE Plasma 6.5, scheduled for late October 2025, the KDE Project is set to introduce the KDE Initial System Setup tool (KISS). This tool aims to simplify the process of setting up new installations of the KDE Plasma desktop environment, particularly for OEM installations on laptops.
KISS is designed specifically for scenarios where users purchase a device that comes preloaded with the Plasma desktop but without an initialized user account. This usually happens when a third party has executed the installation. The wizard prompts users to create a user account, choose the system language and keyboard layout, set the time zone, and configure network connections—all essential steps for a seamless user experience right from the start.
Although many Linux users prefer downloading and installing their distros manually, KISS is particularly beneficial for those who opt for laptops with OEM installations. Considering its primary functionality, the tool is not targeted at every user but is a significant step towards enhancing user-friendliness for new installations of the Plasma desktop.
It’s noteworthy that distributions like KDE neon already manage their system setups during installation through the Calamares universal installer, so KISS may not be necessary in such cases. However, users who prefer systems preloaded with an in-house OS, such as TUXEDO’s OS, might find KISS useful.
The KDE Plasma 6.5 desktop will be available for testing starting on September 18, 2025, with the official release set for October 21, 2025. Some of the enhancements in this version include automatic theme switching at night, printer ink level monitoring, rounded window corners, and improved toggles in System Settings.
For more information on the KDE Initial System Setup, visit the KISS project page.