The CachyOS distribution, powered by Arch Linux, has introduced its first ISO release of 2026. This popular Linux variant continues to attract gamers and enthusiasts looking for optimal performance and an enhanced desktop experience.
Improvements in the Latest Release
CachyOS starts the new year by refining its operating system installer. Among the critical updates are several “quality of life” enhancements.
- Default Bootloader: Limine is now the default bootloader.
- Btrfs Installations: Default compression level is set to one.
- Plasma Login Manager: The new KDE Plasma Login Manager replaces SDDM as the default display manager.
Transitioning to Wayland
The upcoming CachyOS release marks a significant shift to Wayland as the default display server, moving away from X11. This change aligns with similar transitions in other distributions, including Fedora 44.
Enhancements for GNOME Users
For users of the GNOME desktop environment, CachyOS has implemented updates to streamline package management. This helps improve overall system efficiency.
Graphics and Performance Optimizations
- NVIDIA Support: The installation process now includes the nouveau-fw package for improved firmware compatibility with older NVIDIA graphics cards.
- VA-API Support: This update enhances support for Kepler class GPUs.
- Framework Laptop Compatibility: Installation issues related to AMD Zen 5 processors have been resolved, enhancing performance.
For users interested in the latest developments, details and downloads for the January 2026 CachyOS ISO release are available on El-Balad. As the distribution continues to evolve, it remains a compelling choice for those seeking a refined Arch Linux experience.
