Operating Systems
Ongoing coverage on Operating Systems.
Latest coverage
Steam Survey for April 2026 shows Linux still trending well
The April 2026 Steam Hardware & Software Survey shows a slight decrease from the previous month but maintains a positive trend for Linux usage, which now accounts for 4.52% of users. The survey also details the most popular Linux distributions, with SteamOS Holo 64 bit leading, followed by Arch Linux and CachyOS.
Evening Tech Bits
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella acknowledged that Windows 11 has strayed from its intended path and pledged to "win back fans." Meanwhile, Apple CEO Tim Cook does not anticipate the current RAM memory shortage to resolve soon.
This historic OS was not stored digitally, so a fleet of historians have transcribed the source code from ancient…
Microsoft has released the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, a precursor to MS-DOS, on GitHub to commemorate its 45th anniversary. The code was transcribed by a team of historians led by Yufeng Gao and Rich Cini, as the original source code was not stored digitally. This effort preserves a significant piece of early computing history, including the operating system originally created by Tim Paterson for Seattle Computer Products.
Microsoft is reportedly fixing Windows 11 to take on the Steam Machine, but here's what else it needs to do
Microsoft has reportedly launched an internal initiative called K2 to improve Windows 11's performance and reliability, aiming to compete with Linux-based gaming systems like the Steam Deck. The company plans to address user complaints regarding AI integration, performance issues, and unreliability, with goals to achieve performance parity with SteamOS within two years. Additionally, Microsoft is looking to reintroduce features like taskbar customization and simplify the installation process by reducing mandatory Microsoft account usage and prompts for other services.
Linux Mint begin shipping HWE (Hardware Enablement) ISOs for better hardware support
Linux Mint has begun shipping Hardware Enablement (HWE) ISO images for Linux Mint 22.3, featuring the newer Linux kernel 6.17. These HWE ISOs provide support for more recent hardware and include bug fixes from later kernel versions without being a full new release. The team is also considering adding an ALPHA phase to their release cycle for earlier user feedback on significant changes.
SteamOS 3.8.3 Beta gets ready for the Steam Machine and Steam Controller
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.3 Beta, introducing bug fixes and further preparation for the Steam Machine and Steam Controller. This update includes improvements for OS update speeds, graphics features for titles like Crimson Desert, and enhanced support for upcoming Steam hardware. Additionally, a Steam Deck Beta Client update addresses controller notifications and startup issues.
Microsoft CEO says the company is focused on 'fundamentals' to 'win back fans and strengthen…
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated the company is focusing on foundational work to improve its consumer business, including Windows and Xbox, to "win back fans and strengthen engagement." This shift involves addressing user-requested improvements in areas like desktop performance and bugginess, while scaling back AI features where they are not essential. Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft's Windows president, also confirmed this focus on fundamental improvements.
You Can Now Install Linux on Your PS5, Transforming It into a Steam Machine
A method has been shared on GitHub allowing users to install Linux on disc-based PlayStation 5 consoles running firmware versions 3.xx or 4.xx. This soft mod, which requires reinstallation after each reboot, enables the console to function as a Steam Machine, with footage showing Grand Theft Auto 5 running with enhanced ray tracing. The developer is working on features to retain the Linux installation in Rest Mode and support for higher refresh rates.
More retro goodies - Microsoft open sources 86-DOS and PC-DOS
Microsoft has open-sourced the source code for 86-DOS 1.00 and PC-DOS 1.00, including the kernel and utilities like CHKDSK. This release, made available on GitHub, offers a rare glimpse into early operating system development and includes original notes from 86-DOS creator Tim Paterson.
Fedora Linux 44 is out now as one of the best Linux distributions
Fedora Linux 44 has been released, featuring updates across its various spins and continuing its reputation as a top Linux distribution. The Fedora KDE spin is highlighted as particularly suitable for gaming, with improvements in the Anaconda installer, GNOME 50 for the Workstation edition, and Plasma 6.6 for the KDE Plasma Desktop. The inclusion of the NTSYNC kernel module enhances compatibility and performance for running Windows applications, including games, via Wine and Steam.
Canonical clarify some their AI for plans for Ubuntu Linux - opt-in and easy to remove
Canonical has clarified its plans for integrating AI features into Ubuntu Linux, emphasizing an opt-in approach and easy removal of these capabilities. Jon Seager, VP Engineering for Canonical, stated that AI features will be delivered as Snaps, allowing users to uninstall them, and will be strictly opt-in in future releases, with initial setup wizard options. The company also confirmed plans to incorporate AI-generated code into Ubuntu, citing similar policies in foundational projects like the Linux Kernel.
Canonical clarify their AI for plans for Ubuntu Linux - opt-in and easy to remove
Canonical has clarified its plans for integrating Artificial Intelligence features into Ubuntu Linux, emphasizing an opt-in approach and easy removal. Jon Seager, VP Engineering, stated that AI capabilities will be delivered as Snaps, allowing users to uninstall them. Future releases will feature AI-native options in the initial setup wizard, with default configurations prioritizing local inference over cloud-based processing.
Framework Laptop 13 Pro is selling out with the Linux version beating Windows
The Framework Laptop 13 Pro, particularly its Linux configurations, is experiencing exceptionally high demand, selling out multiple batches and outselling Windows versions. Early reviews praise its premium build quality, performance on Linux distributions like Nobara, and impressive battery life, highlighting the appeal of modular, repairable hardware combined with open-source software.
Evening Tech Bits
Microsoft has announced significant improvements to Windows Update for Windows 11. Details on the changes were shared by Windows Central, with a separate mention of LINUX on UNIX on the PDP-11/44 from Dave's Garage.
Ubuntu 26.04 ('Resolute Raccoon') LTS is out now
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, codenamed 'Resolute Raccoon', has been released with long-term support until April 2031. This update brings GNOME 50, Linux kernel 7.0, and Mesa 26, along with numerous software and feature enhancements for PC users. Canonical highlights the release's focus on resilience and innovation in open-source technology.
Apple’s New CEO Won’t Make Games—But He Might Make Macs Worth Gaming On
With John Ternus, known for his work on Apple silicon, now CEO, there's potential for Macs to become a more viable gaming platform. While not expecting a direct challenge to consoles, Ternus's hardware background could accelerate the gradual improvements in Mac gaming capabilities and software support.
Morning Tech Bits
Ubuntu 26.04 will prevent upgrades on Thursday for users whose containers are still utilizing cgroup v1. The article also briefly mentions a China half marathon featuring runners versus robots and the Windows 11 April update.
Evening Tech Bits
Microsoft is reportedly redesigning the Start menu for Windows 11, aiming to improve the user experience. Additionally, a special 10-year anniversary edition of the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D processor for the AM4 platform has been spotted.
Historical Steam survey data suggests the Big Switch from Windows to Linux has yet to happen
Historical Steam survey data indicates that despite improvements in Linux gaming and calls for users to move away from Windows, the vast majority of PC gamers continue to use Windows. As of March 2026, 92.33% of Steam users are on a Windows OS, with Linux adoption remaining a small percentage, though representing a significant number of concurrent players.
New US Congress bill proposal requires all operating system providers to verify ages
A new bill has been proposed in the US Congress that would require all operating system providers to verify the age of their users. Introduced by Representative Josh Gottheimer and co-sponsored by Representative Elise M. Stefanik, the bill has bipartisan support but its specific verification methods remain unclear. Critics express concerns about potential privacy implications and security risks.
