OpenMandriva ROME 24.12: A Fresh Breeze with COSMIC Flair
OpenMandriva ROME 24.12: A Fresh Breeze with COSMIC Flair
OpenMandriva is a community-driven Linux distribution that continues the legacy of Mandriva Linux. It offers both fixed and rolling release branches, catering to different user preferences. The fixed branch, known as OpenMandriva Lx, provides stable releases with long-term support, while the rolling branch, ROME, offers cutting-edge software and frequent updates.
The OpenMandriva Project
OpenMandriva is an independent Linux distribution developed by the OpenMandriva Association, a non-profit organization based in France. The project was born in 2012 when Mandriva S.A. ceased its involvement in the development of Mandriva Linux. A group of enthusiasts and developers came together to continue the spirit of Mandriva, launching OpenMandriva Lx as their primary product in 2013.
The distribution has since evolved through multiple releases, focusing on providing a modern and user-friendly operating system. OpenMandriva is unique in its approach, as it's one of the few distributions that uses the LLVM Clang compiler by default instead of GCC.
ROME 24.12: A Stellar Release
The latest rolling release, OpenMandriva ROME 24.12, brings a host of exciting features and improvements. Let's dive into the highlights of this release:
KDE Plasma 6.2 Desktop
ROME 24.12 ships with KDE Plasma 6.2.4 as the default desktop environment, accompanied by KDE Gear 24.08.3 and KDE Frameworks 6.8. This upgrade brings the latest KDE experience to users, with improved performance and new features.
Linux Kernel and System Components
The distribution is powered by Linux kernel 6.12 LTS, built with Clang. It also includes updated system components such as LLVM/Clang 19.1.4, GCC 14.2, Glibc 2.40, Systemd 256.9, and Mesa 24.3.
Multiple Desktop Environments
While KDE Plasma 6 is the flagship desktop, ROME 24.12 also offers spins featuring GNOME 47, LXQt 2.1, and even KDE Plasma 5 for those who prefer alternative desktops.
Gaming Enhancements
OpenMandriva extends its appeal to gamers by providing Proton and Proton-Experimental directly in the OpenMandriva repository. This allows users to access Proton without needing Steam or proprietary code.
Privacy-Focused Browsers
The release includes privacy-enhanced versions of popular browsers. Chromium 131 comes with Google spyware disabled and JPEG-XL support re-enabled, while Firefox 130 is patched to remove spyware.
Creative and Productivity Tools
ROME 24.12 includes LibreOffice Suite 24.8 with Plasma 6 integration and GIMP 3.0 RC for creative users.
The COSMIC Spin: A New Frontier
The standout feature of ROME 24.12 is the introduction of a new spin featuring the COSMIC desktop environment. COSMIC, developed by System76, is a Rust-based desktop environment that's still in its alpha stage. This spin offers users a glimpse into the future of Linux desktops, showcasing innovative design and functionality.
The COSMIC spin in ROME 24.12 is based on the recently released Alpha 4 version of the COSMIC desktop. While it's still in development, this spin provides adventurous users with an opportunity to experience and contribute to the evolution of this exciting new desktop environment.
Installation and System Requirements
OpenMandriva ROME 24.12 is available for 64-bit (x86_64) systems. The distribution offers several ISO images for download, including spins for different desktop environments and a separate ISO for the KDE Plasma 6 Wayland session.
Minimum System Requirements:
- A 64-bit processor
- At least 2 GB RAM (for running KDE Plasma and standard applications)
- A minimum of 125 GB hard disk space
Recommended System Requirements:
- At least 8 GB RAM or more
- An SSD for system installation
When installing, it's recommended to use a wired internet connection if possible, as it can simplify the setup process significantly. After installation, make sure to update your system to get the latest packages and security fixes.
Community and Support
The OpenMandriva community is active and welcoming to both new users and experienced contributors alike. Users can get support or participate in discussions through various platforms such as official forums, IRC channels, mailing lists, or by reporting issues on their bug tracker system.
Developers interested in contributing can find detailed information on how to get involved through OpenMandriva's GitLab repository or official wiki pages.
Comparison with Other Independent Distributions
OpenMandriva stands out among independent Linux distributions for its unique approach to development and user experience:
- Solus, another independent distribution known for its homegrown Budgie desktop environment, focuses on personal computing with a semi-rolling release model and its own package manager (eopkg). While Solus emphasizes simplicity for end-users, OpenMandriva's dual fixed-and-rolling branches cater to both stability seekers and cutting-edge enthusiasts.
- Void Linux, an entirely independent project like OpenMandriva, uses its own package manager (XBPS) alongside runit as its init system instead of Systemd. Void also supports musl libc for lightweight systems but lacks some of OpenMandriva's polished desktop environments like KDE Plasma or COSMIC.
- NixOS, another distinctive independent distro, focuses on declarative system configuration using its Nix package manager. Unlike OpenMandriva's user-friendly approach with pre-configured desktops like KDE Plasma or GNOME, NixOS appeals more to advanced users who prefer full control over their system setup.
Each distribution has its unique strengths—OpenMandriva's focus on leveraging LLVM/Clang as its default compiler combined with innovative spins like COSMIC sets it apart from others in terms of offering cutting-edge technology while maintaining accessibility for everyday users.
Conclusion
OpenMandriva ROME 24.12 showcases the distribution's commitment to innovation and user choice while staying true to its roots in Mandriva Linux heritage. With cutting-edge software updates, privacy-focused features, gaming enhancements, and the exciting new COSMIC spin offering a glimpse into future desktop environments—it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a modern Linux experience that balances stability with innovation.
Whether you're a developer looking for a robust platform or an enthusiast eager to explore new technologies like COSMIC or LLVM/Clang integration—OpenMandriva ROME delivers something special for everyone.
Disclaimer: This overview reflects information available at the time of writing about OpenMandriva ROME 24.12; rolling-release distributions evolve rapidly so always refer directly to their official website/documentation before installing/upgrading systems!
References:
1. OpenMandriva ROME 24.12 Official Announcement
2. Distribution Release: OpenMandriva 24.12 "ROME" (DistroWatch.com News)
3. OpenMandriva ROME 24.12 Unveils New COSMIC Spin
4. Tux Machines — OpenMandriva Lx 24.12 Released with COSMIC Desktop Spin, Linux Kernel 6.12 LTS
5. OpenMandriva ROME 24.12 Released With KDE Plasma 6 Desktop By Default - Phoronix
8. LLVM/Clang
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