KDE launches first beta release of Plasma 6, Frameworks 6 and Gear for testing purposes

A few weeks after the alpha release, KDE has officially announced the availability of the first beta version of all software to be included in the KDE 6 megarelease, set for February 2024. In an effort to ensure seamless integration across all components of the KDE software stack, the organization is simultaneously releasing major bundles, marking another step in its development journey.

The beta releases of KDE Plasma 6, KDE Frameworks 6, and the KDE Gear bundle of apps are now available. However, it is important to note that this is a very early preview, intended solely for developers and testers. As with all pre-release software, this version is unfinished, may be unstable, and is likely to contain bugs. The purpose of this early release is to allow volunteers to test it, identify any issues, and report them so they can be addressed prior to the final product's publication.

Plasma 6 is a key component of this release, incorporating new technologies from Qt and other ever-evolving tools. This provides new features, enhanced support for the latest hardware, and compatibility with upcoming hardware and software technologies. This beta release aims to provide a glimpse into the future of KDE's software stack, while also seeking valuable feedback from the developer and tester community.