Manjaro 24.1 “Xahea” Released: A Detailed Look at the New Features
Manjaro 24.1 'Xahea' launches with GNOME 46, KDE Plasma 6.1, Linux 6.10, and major software updates for better performance.
On October 1, 2024, Manjaro Linux 24.1 “Xahea” officially debuted, bringing significant updates to one of the most user-friendly Arch-based Linux distributions.
This release, coming less than four months after version 24.0 “Wynsdey,” includes desktop enhancements, kernel updates, and a wide range of software improvements, making it a standout choice for new and advanced Linux users.
Key Features and Updates
These are the key features and updates added in the Manjaro 24.1:
Desktop Environments
Manjaro 24.1 offers users updated desktop environments:
GNOME 46: This version brings new features like a global search tool in the file manager, allowing users to search multiple locations simultaneously. The update also improves the remote desktop experience with a dedicated login option for easier remote connections. The Settings app has been restructured with a new System section, organizing settings such as Region & Language, Date & Time, and Secure Shell.
KDE Plasma 6.1.5: Plasma 6.1 continues to enhance the desktop experience with a redesigned Edit Mode for smoother customization, improved session management, and remote desktop capabilities directly from the System Settings app. KDE Gear 24.08.1 also introduces more refinement.
Xfce 4.18: Xfce users benefit from new features such as file highlighting in the Thunar file manager, which allows the customization of file colors. Additionally, the Xfce panel offers more control with pixel-based configuration and the option to keep the panel above maximized windows.
Kernel and Software Upgrades
Here are the major software upgrades in the Manjaro 24.1:
Kernel Updates
Manjaro 24.1 is built around Linux kernel 6.10, offering better system performance and enhanced hardware compatibility. The release includes Linux 6.6 LTS and Linux 6.1 LTS for users who prefer long-term stability.
Notable Software Package Updates
This version brings updated software packages that are crucial for both general users and developers:
These updates ensure users have the latest tools for managing virtual machines, creating documents, and browsing the web.
Additional Features and Improvements
There are a few additional features and improvements in the Manjaro 24.1, such as:
Firmware and Toolchain Updates
In addition to the kernel updates, Manjaro 24.1 includes various firmware and toolchain improvements, ensuring that the system remains fast, reliable, and ready for both older and modern hardware. Developers will also appreciate the updates to Boost and Perl. Moreover, Python 3.12 provides a stable environment for development tasks.
Community Feedback and Customization Options
The Manjaro community has praised the updates, particularly the ease of customization in KDE and Xfce. Panel configuration in Xfce now offers more precise control, while GNOME’s enhanced file search and Plasma’s session recovery features have been widely appreciated for streamlining user workflows.
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Update for Manjaro Fans
Manjaro 24.1 “Xahea” is a comprehensive update that continues the distribution’s tradition of making Arch Linux accessible and user-friendly. With cutting-edge desktop environments, up-to-date kernels, and a wide array of software updates, this release offers something for everyone. Manjaro 24.1 provides a smooth, customizable experience ready to handle any workload, whether you’re a power user or a beginner.
The latest Manjaro 24.1 ISOs for GNOME, KDE, and Xfce editions can be downloaded from the official Manjaro website.