Fedora Asahi Remix 40, the new version of Linux for Apple Silicon

 

Fedora Asahi Remix 40 has been announced as the latest version of the Fedora-based system designed to run on Mac computers with Apple Silicon processors. This version primarily represents an evolution of what was already present, which is quite significant given the project's potential to enhance the Linux desktop experience, particularly in areas like sound.

According to Fedora Magazine, Fedora Asahi Remix is developed through close collaboration between the Asahi Linux team and the Fedora Asahi Special Interest Group (SIG). It's worth noting that Asahi Linux is not a traditional distribution but rather a technology platform that enables running Linux on Apple Silicon processors. However, this doesn't stop its Fedora remix from being a reference system.

As expected, Fedora Asahi Remix 40 is based on Fedora 40 and uses KDE Plasma 6 as its desktop environment. Therefore, the Wayland session should be the default, especially given the strong support this system has for the graphical protocol.

Another noteworthy feature is support for OpenGL 4.6, the latest version of the Khronos Group API. We'll see if Asahi manages to provide Vulkan support to its tech base, but it makes sense to focus on OpenGL since it's still the primary graphics API for Linux today, while Vulkan is used mainly for specific tasks and contexts.

Although KDE Plasma is the default desktop, Fedora Asahi Remix 40 is also available in the following variants: one with GNOME 46 for users who prefer that desktop, another based on Fedora Server for server workloads, and other headless implementations plus a minimal image for users who want to build a custom experience from scratch. Additionally, the installer is not Anaconda but a reimplementation of the popular Calamares.

Otherwise, given that this system is based on Fedora 40, it's easy to identify its core components. An interesting aspect of Fedora Asahi Remix is that its developers are working to provide “the first fully integrated Digital Signal Processor (DSP) solution for the Linux desktop ecosystem,” aiming to achieve this by collaborating with projects like PipeWire and WirePlumber to ensure automatic and transparent DSP configuration support. We'll see if this effort translates to something that can be adapted to x86 (Intel and AMD).

Fedora Asahi Remix is currently more of a work in progress than a production-ready product, so it's only recommended for those who are not just curious but also possess the necessary expertise. Other aspects, like Apple's product warranty, must be considered if someone intends to install this Fedora remix aimed at running on Apple Silicon processors.

Those brave enough to give it a try can consult the installation guide in the Fedora documentation. People already using Fedora Asahi Remix can update it by following the instructions available in the same place.

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