KDE has officially released Plasma 6.6, the latest version of its popular desktop environment for GNU/Linux operating systems. This update introduces several notable features aimed at enhancing user experience.
Among the key highlights is a new display manager called the “Plasma Login Manager.” This tool is designed to potentially replace existing login managers such as SDDM in various distributions like the upcoming Fedora Linux 44, as well as CachyOS and EndeavourOS. However, it’s important to note that the Plasma Login Manager relies on systemd, meaning it won’t function on systemd-free distributions.
Other significant improvements include the ability to create a global theme from the existing Plasma setup and adjust content sharpness on screens with the Linux kernel 6.19. The Spectacle screenshot tool now includes OCR capabilities, and there’s a USB portal feature that allows sandboxed applications to access USB devices.
Additionally, KDE Plasma 6.6 offers capabilities to exclude specific windows from screen recordings. The KWin window manager now supports XRandr emulation to improve compatibility with certain XWayland applications. Users can also expect better color management with per-DRM-plane color pipelines.
As for security features, this version enables the storage of Wi-Fi passwords in a root-owned location, improving both security and accessibility. Additionally, it enhances cross-app activation on Wayland and integrates a QR code feature in the Networks widget for more straightforward Wi-Fi connections.
KDE Plasma 6.6 also brings improvements for battery management on laptops, enhanced support for colorblind users, and more robust screen mirroring. Custom screen modes for Wayland sessions and automatic brightness adjustments on devices equipped with ambient light sensors have also been added.
For accessibility, a new “Slow Keys” feature is now available in the Wayland session. Other notable enhancements include better OpenBSD compatibility, support for the oo7 Secret Service provider, and improved management of opacity for picture-in-picture windows.
Finally, the release also includes a workaround for HDR support in Windows games running within Wine or Proton, ensuring better color fidelity. Numerous improvements have also been made to the System Settings app and default widgets on the Plasma Panel.
For further details, check out the release announcement page. Users will soon be able to enjoy KDE Plasma 6.6 across popular GNU/Linux distributions like KDE neon, Arch Linux, openSUSE Tumbleweed, and Fedora Linux.
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