Gaming-focused Linux distro Bazzite 44 brings Linux 6.19 kernel, GNOME 50 & KDE Plasma 6.6

Bazzite 44 launches as the newest release of this Fedora-based Linux distribution focused on gaming and everyday usability. By rebasing atop Fedora 44, which debuted only yesterday, users benefit from the latest core platform and software stack. The update delivers the option of GNOME 50 or KDE Plasma 6.6, offering modern desktop environments for varied preferences.

While these major updates anchor the release, Bazzite 44 incorporates the Linux 6.19 kernel to enhance hardware and driver compatibility. Developers have signaled an upgrade to kernel 7.0 is planned for a future update. Mesa 26.0.5 and Bazaar 0.7.15 headline key software refreshes, bolstering graphics and application support. Security enhancements now include SBOMs, build attestation, Open Source Security Foundation scans, and signed ISO images to address supply chain and integrity concerns.

Following these main changes, KDE images drop Ptyxis in favor of Konsole, which brings new container support. ISO images are now trimmed by 1 GB after relocating QEMU and ROCM components to the optional Bazzite-DX, helping save storage space. Other additions are built-in Elgato 4K capture card support, access to the latest ASUS Linux patches for ASUSCtl, and a new Sunshine installer using ujust, replacing Sunshine’s default in-image installation.