KDE releases alpha of its first official KDE Linux distribution for public testing

KDE has released the first alpha of KDE Linux, its new official Linux distribution now open for public testing. The system is presented as a reference implementation for the KDE Plasma desktop, KDE applications, and development tools, built around an immutable design where the core system is read-only and updated through atomic image-based updates with rollback support. The goal is to provide a safe, reproducible base for both developers and users interested in the latest KDE technologies.

The base is derived from Arch Linux but differs from a traditional Arch setup by being immutable. Most applications are delivered as Flatpaks, while core KDE apps like Dolphin, Discover, Konsole, Spectacle, and Ark are built directly from source. Extra software can be added using AppImages, Snaps, or containers through preinstalled tools like Distrobox and Toolbox. The base image includes a wide range of drivers and support packages, but users can't replace the kernel, drivers, or desktop environment.

In contrast to KDE neon, which is based on Ubuntu and focuses on giving early access to KDE software through a traditional package system, KDE Linux offers a different approach with its immutable structure. While not aimed at production environments during this alpha stage, it provides developers and testers with a platform that avoids common issues like package conflicts or broken upgrades. The alpha release is distributed as a RAW image for USB installation only, with virtual machine support not yet available.