Arch Linux-based Manjaro Linux has officially launched version 26.0, codenamed “Anh-Linh.” This update makes notable enhancements by integrating the Linux 6.18 LTS kernel and elevating the desktop environments to the latest versions: Xfce 4.20, GNOME 49, and KDE Plasma 6.5.
One significant shift is that both the KDE and GNOME editions have switched to using Wayland as their default display server. Consequently, users upgrading to Manjaro 26.0 may lose their X11 sessions. To navigate potential issues, developers have provided a detailed article highlighting known problems and solutions.
In addition to updated desktop environments, the new release includes the latest versions of core applications. The KDE Plasma version, in particular, features KDE Gear 25.12 and KDE Frameworks 6.21. Furthermore, graphics drivers such as Nvidia 590 and Mesa 25.3 have been updated to improve compatibility and performance.
Manjaro 26.0 also marks the debut of the stable release of the COSMIC desktop environment. Other updated applications include Mozilla Firefox 146, LibreOffice 25.8.4, and GStreamer 1.26.10, enhancing overall user experience.
Users can now download Manjaro 26.0 from the release announcement page, with live ISO images available for the Xfce, KDE Plasma, and GNOME desktop environments. Both Full and Minimal versions are offered, featuring Linux 6.18 LTS, along with Linux 6.12 LTS and Linux 6.6 LTS kernels for flexibility.
Current users of Manjaro can update their existing installations seamlessly through the terminal using the command sudo pacman -Syu, or by utilizing their preferred graphical package manager.