Linux projects release major updates in weekly roundup

The 9to5Linux weekly roundup for the week ending January 18, 2026, highlights several key developments in the open-source world, including new versions of Firefox, Wine, and KDE Plasma. These releases bring enhancements like improved compatibility and bug fixes to Linux users. The roundup also notes the end of life for Ubuntu 25.04 and new distribution editions.

The 275th edition of the 9to5Linux Weekly Roundup, published on January 18, 2026, covers the latest happenings in the GNU/Linux and open-source communities. It emphasizes a series of software updates that enhance functionality and support for various platforms.

Among the hot news items, Mozilla Firefox 147 is now available with new features and improvements. MX Linux 25.1 Beta has been released, reintroducing dual-init support and based on Debian 13.3. Firefox 148 is in public beta, offering better screen reader compatibility. NVIDIA's 580.126.09 driver improves support for recent Linux kernels. KDE Plasma 6.5.5 enhances compatibility with older Valve Index VR headsets, while version 6.6 enters public beta testing.

A standout release is Wine 11, which includes NTSync support, Vulkan H.264 decoding, and additional enhancements for running Windows applications on Linux. Thunderbird 147 adds a 'Show Full Path' option in folder panes for compact views. Wireshark 4.6.3 updates protocol and capture file support. GRUB 2.14 introduces EROFS, Argon2 KDF, and Shim loader protocol support.

Ubuntu 25.04 'Plucky Puffin' has reached its end of life, prompting users to upgrade to Ubuntu 25.10. Other notable updates include Tails 7.4 with persistent language settings, Debian support on OpenWrt One router, and EndeavourOS Ganymede Neo featuring Linux kernel 6.18 LTS and KDE Plasma 6.5.4.

New Linux distributions this week encompass EndeavourOS Ganymede Neo, KDE neon 20260115, Tails 7.4, various Manjaro Linux 26.0.1 editions, CentOS Stream 10-20260113, TUXEDO OS 20260113, and Q4OS 6.5 variants.

Applications and drivers released include Distrobox 1.8.2.3, Firefox 147.0.1, Docker 29.1.5, PipeWire 1.4.10, Raspberry Pi Imager 2.0.4, Chromium 144.0.7559.59, Wireshark 4.6.3, GRUB 2.14, Thunderbird 147.0, Wine 11.0, Tor Browser 15.0.4, NVIDIA 580.126.09, ALSA 1.2.15.3, Snort 3.10.1.0, Ruby 4.0.1, and Linux kernels 6.18.5 LTS, 6.12.65 LTS, 6.6.120 LTS, and 6.1.160 LTS.

The roundup anticipates more exciting Linux news in the coming week.

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Illustration of Kali Linux 2025.4 release on a hacker's laptop screen, showcasing new tools and updated desktop in a realistic cybersecurity workspace.
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Kali Linux 2025.4 released with new tools and desktop updates

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Kali Linux has released version 2025.4 on December 12, 2025, marking its final update of the year. The release introduces three new hacking tools, significant desktop environment improvements, and enhanced support for Kali NetHunter. It focuses on modernizing the user experience for cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers.

The Linux and open-source community experienced a busy week with several distribution releases and software improvements. Highlights include updates to MX Linux, CachyOS, GNU Guix, and Deepin, alongside enhancements in tools like GIMP and Wine. Hardware announcements featured new Linux-compatible devices.

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How-To Geek's weekly Linux news roundup for December 20, 2025—following last week's COSMIC and Kali coverage—highlights a new Kali Linux version, another Raspberry Pi imager tool, and Ubuntu Studio's redesign.

SparkyLinux has unveiled its 2025.12 release, codenamed Tiamat, as a semi-rolling snapshot based on Debian Testing repositories. This version features the Linux 6.17 kernel and supports newer kernel options. It includes updated software like Firefox and Thunderbird, available in multiple desktop editions.

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The KDE Project has released the beta version of its upcoming Plasma 6.6 desktop environment, featuring numerous enhancements for Linux users. This major update introduces new tools for accessibility, security, and performance. The stable release is slated for February 17, 2026.

The KDE Project has announced that its Plasma 6.6 desktop environment will arrive on February 17, 2026, introducing a range of features aimed at improving customization, accessibility, and hardware integration. Key additions include adjustable frame borders and a new login manager, addressing long-standing user requests for more flexible visuals. Beta versions will be available starting January 13 for testing.

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Linus Torvalds announced Linux kernel 6.18 on the last Sunday of November 2025, marking the final release of the year. The kernel has been officially designated as a long-term support version, with maintenance promised until December 2027. It includes various hardware improvements, file system enhancements, and new features like the Rust Binder driver.

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