UPDATE: KDE has confirmed that its widely-used desktop environment, KDE Plasma, will officially drop support for X11 in the upcoming version 6.8, sparking immediate interest among Linux users. As this major shift approaches, users are urged to prepare for the transition away from X11, with the final farewell expected by early 2027.
In a recent announcement on the official KDE blog, the organization revealed that while KDE Plasma 6.5 is currently available, the move to eliminate X11 support is on track for the release of version 6.8. This change is significant, as it directly impacts users who currently rely on X11 for their desktop experience.
For many, the transition to Wayland has already proved beneficial, with reports indicating improved performance and stability. However, KDE acknowledges that a segment of its user base remains dependent on X11 for various applications. The developers have reassured these users that they will have ample time to adapt before support for X11 officially ends.
According to KDE’s timeline, the X11 session will continue to receive support until early 2027. Users can expect the last updates for X11 compatibility to be rolled out around that time, although the exact date remains unconfirmed as KDE may introduce additional bug-fix releases for the current version.
For those who find themselves needing X11 post-transition, KDE offers a couple of alternatives. Users can turn to long-term support (LTS) distributions, such as AlmaLinux 9, which will maintain X11 support until 2032. Additionally, the Xwayland compatibility layer is available, providing a bridge for most X11 applications to run on Wayland. KDE reports that Xwayland has made significant strides, enhancing compatibility for users who may struggle with the switch.
This news comes at a pivotal moment for the Linux community as it continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies. As developers and users alike anticipate the changes ahead, the shift from X11 to Wayland reflects a broader trend towards modernizing the Linux desktop experience.
With over a year remaining until the official end of X11 support, KDE’s proactive communication allows users time to explore alternatives and prepare for the future. This announcement not only impacts technical users but also highlights the ongoing evolution of open-source software, inviting discussions on user adaptability and community support.
As the Linux landscape transforms, stay tuned for more updates from KDE regarding the upcoming releases and further details on how to navigate this significant transition. Share this article to keep fellow Linux enthusiasts informed of the latest developments!
