Two new Linux kernels, version 7.2.8 and LTS 6.18.54, have been released, focusing on bug fixes and security updates. Kernel 7.2.8 includes approximately 438 commits, while LTS 6.18.54 has around 397 commits, with significant improvements in SMB/CIFS networking, AMD GPU stability, and wireless functionality. Key fixes include addressing memory leaks in SMB, resolving usability issues with multiuser mounts, and enhancing AMD graphics stability, particularly for users resuming from hibernation. Both kernels continue the project's regular update cadence, with the LTS version supported until December 2028
Microsoft has released WSL 2.9.13, a pre-release version of the Windows Subsystem for Linux that enhances its wslc container CLI with Docker-like features. Key updates include the addition of flags for pulling all tags and displaying digests, along with new command options that aim to provide a more familiar experience for Docker users. The release also addresses two significant security issues, including a mitigation for Redirection Trust and a patch for potential memory access vulnerabilities. Developers are encouraged to try the pre-release for its new features and improvements, while production users may want to wait for the stable version
Visual Studio Code 1.139.1 was released on September 25, 2026, as a patch to address issues with managed settings that were previously dropped during server refresh failures. The main fix prevents enterprise policy controls from disappearing when a refresh fails, ensuring that restrictions remain in effect even during issues such as 401 or 403 errors. Although the release includes general housekeeping tasks, the significant change stabilizes managed settings for organizations that enforce policies, notably improving Copilot telemetry configuration. Overall, while the patch may seem minor, it effectively resolves a critical issue without disrupting other features introduced in the previous version
Microsoft has released PowerToys Preview v0.101.2684.0, focusing on significant updates to the Command Palette, including a UI language selector, improved "Window Walker" search functionality, and theme-aware parameter boxes. The update also addresses a security issue in the Keyboard Manager regarding "Run program" mappings that unintentionally inherited administrator privileges, along with an installer fix for context-menu updates. This release follows shortly after the previous version, and aims to enhance the overall user experience while preparing for the upcoming stable release of PowerToys 0.102, slated for completion on October 5, 2026. Future updates for version 0.102 are set to include tabbed pages for the Command Palette, TypeScript and JavaScript SDK support, and various improvements to other PowerToys utilities
KDE has released Plasma 6.8 Beta 2, which includes significant updates such as Union theming for legacy QtWidgets apps and the integration of the Kup backup scheduler into the desktop environment. The Union theming engine aims to provide a consistent look across applications, although it is still buggy and requires user testing for improvements. Additionally, the update removes X11 login support in favor of Wayland, marking a shift in KDE's direction. Other enhancements include improved HDR support, default NVIDIA triple buffering, and various fixes across multiple modules, contributing to a more refined user experience
GnuCash 5.17 has been released, enhancing its features as an Open Source finance application aimed at both personal and small business financial accounting. This software is designed to be user-friendly while still offering powerful and flexible capabilities. A portable version is also available for users who need mobility.
Floccus 5.11.0 has been released, enhancing the ability to sync bookmarks across various browsers and devices securely and privately. Unlike conventional bookmark managers that require users to adapt to a new interface, Floccus allows users to maintain their browser's native bookmark management features while serving as a synchronization tool. This ensures a seamless experience, harmonizing bookmarks without disrupting the user's existing workflow.
Nobara Linux 44 has released refreshed builds for its Steam HTPC and Steam Handheld versions, both dated September 26, 2026, while the standard Official, GNOME, and KDE editions remain at the earlier September 2 base. This update follows a similar pattern to Nobara 43, with improvements to console-style editions after the custom kernel and graphics stack matured. The Steam builds utilize Nobara's custom gamescope technology for a console-like interface, while also incorporating updates to the kernel and controller remapping tools. Nobara is an independent Fedora-based distribution aimed at providing a gaming-ready experience, and it has gained popularity for its ease of use and strong performance in gaming benchmarks
Double Commander has released version 1.2.9, enhancing its position as a versatile Open Source file manager known for its dual-pane interface. Inspired by Total Commander, Double Commander offers a range of innovative features that set it apart, including a multi-rename tool, a tabbed interface, customizable columns, and an internal text editor. Users can also take advantage of its built-in file viewer, support for various archive formats like ZIP and RAR, an advanced search function, a configurable button bar, and file operations logging. Additionally, the program supports plugins, allowing for further customization and functionality.
ASCOMP has announced the release of Synchredible version 9.119, a user-friendly software designed for the synchronization of files and folders. This latest version features an intuitive wizard that guides users through the synchronization process, allowing for customization options such as file exclusion, redundant deletion management, and job automation. Users can choose to synchronize individual files or entire drives, with the software handling the copying and saving of data seamlessly.
Noctalia has released version 5.2.0, a major update featuring a comprehensive calendar system that integrates reminders from iCalendar, CalDAV, and Google Calendar, addressing a highly requested feature. This release marks the completion of a significant architectural overhaul, moving away from Qt to a native C++ implementation that operates on Wayland and OpenGL ES for improved performance and stability. Additional enhancements include a redesigned window switcher, new audio feedback options, improved screenshot functionality, and various stability fixes, alongside support for multiple languages. The update maintains an MIT license and aims to provide a cohesive desktop experience without the complexities introduced by multiple toolkits
WinDirStat 2.9.0 has been released, offering users an effective tool for analyzing disk usage and cleaning up storage on Microsoft Windows systems. This free application is especially beneficial for users who find their storage space dwindling without a clear understanding of what is consuming it. Additionally, for those who prefer portability, a version is available that can run from a USB stick.
ASCOMP has announced the release of KeyCtrl 2.202, a powerful tool designed to enhance productivity by allowing users to create custom hotkeys tailored to their specific needs. This software goes beyond basic keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V, which are fundamental for copying and pasting, and provides users with a more efficient way to manage their daily tasks.
RadeonTuner is a new software tool designed as a simplified and user-friendly alternative to the extensive AMD Radeon Adrenalin Edition suite. Its main function is to provide essential features that allow users to easily adjust display settings, optimize GPU and fan performance, and manage various graphics options for gaming.
The AppReadWriteCounter has released version 1.46, which is a portable utility that allows users to monitor and display real-time file read and write operations for all applications currently running on their system. Every application on a computer performs read and write tasks to function properly, and this tool provides valuable insights into these operations.
Steven Barrett released Liquorix Linux Kernel 7.2-13, which merges upstream Linux 7.2.8 and updates the package version to 7.2.8-1, but does not introduce new Project-C scheduler patches, as those were included in earlier releases. This update is primarily a maintenance release, maintaining the project's unique interactive tuning features such as SMT-aware scheduling and Zen Interactive frequency defaults. The 7.2 series has seen rapid development with various improvements and fixes, leading to a stable build that showcases Liquorix's advanced scheduler work. Additionally, the package includes enhancements for systems with limited video RAM and aims to optimize performance for interactive workloads
The latest release of VOVSOFT VCF Editor 3.2 enhances the management and editing of Windows vCard files (VCF) offline. This robust software is designed for users who need to organize and modify their contact information securely and efficiently. By operating entirely offline, VOVSOFT VCF Editor ensures that sensitive data remains private and is not transmitted over the internet, offering an essential layer of security for users concerned about confidentiality.
The newly released version 4.6.3 of Permanent Clipboard for Chrome offers an efficient solution for saving and organizing clipboard snippets. This lightweight extension allows users to easily capture text and images, providing a user-friendly interface for managing copied materials. Permanent Clipboard is designed to enhance productivity by allowing users to categorize snippets for quick access and effortlessly search through saved items, making it especially beneficial for students, professionals, and anyone who frequently uses the clipboard.
Basilisk, a web browser inspired by Firefox, was released on September 24, 2026. Originally developed by the Pale Moon team, it is now maintained by independent developers and utilizes the Goanna (Gecko) layout and rendering engine. Although described as a beta version, Basilisk is recognized for its impressive stability, comparable to that of Firefox. The browser is designed to emulate the user interface of pre-Servo Firefox, offering speed and ease of use that many users appreciate.
Slack has recently released version 4.52.171, further enhancing its capabilities as a premier tool for team communication. Designed to consolidate all team interactions in one accessible platform, Slack facilitates real-time messaging, file sharing, and both individual and group conversations.
FanControl V281 has been released, offering a highly customizable and portable Open Source fan management utility for both GPU and CPU. This tool allows users to gain extensive control over their machine's fan operations through an intuitive interface designed to optimize fan performance and keep systems running cool and quiet. FanControl is particularly useful for gamers and PC enthusiasts who require effective cooling during high-demand tasks.
Valve has released SteamOS 3.9.2 Beta for the Steam Deck and Steam Machine, marking one of the OS's most significant updates, which includes a new desktop environment, a rebase to the Linux 7.2 kernel, and a package rename. Additionally, a separate SteamOS 0.4.1 Beta tailored for the Steam Frame VR headset was released, aiming to address specific VR issues. The updates come with numerous bug fixes, including resolving problems affecting game launches on newer Intel CPUs and improving performance features for various devices. Both updates are opt-in, allowing users to choose whether to install them, with the recommendation for those valuing stability to hold off
Broot version 1.60.2 has been released, enhancing the experience of navigating directory trees via the command line. This open-source tool transforms terminal navigation into a more streamlined and enjoyable process, moving away from the cumbersome use of traditional commands like ls, cd, and find. Instead, Broot features an interactive, live-updating tree view that allows users to search and navigate directories in real-time, making it particularly appealing for those who frequently use the terminal.
Six Linux distributions have released important security updates, primarily addressing critical vulnerabilities in the DNS resolver Unbound and various web browsers. Unbound has received critical ratings due to remote code execution and DNSSEC flaws, while browsers including Firefox, Thunderbird, and Chromium have been updated to fix numerous vulnerabilities related to use-after-free and privilege escalation bugs. The security updates across AlmaLinux, Debian, Fedora, RHEL, Rocky Linux, and SUSE include a significant focus on patching these critical issues, with recommendations to prioritize updating DNS resolvers and browsers first. Additional advisories cover various packages, including fixes for other software vulnerabilities and maintenance issues, emphasizing the need for administrators to apply these updates promptly to secure their systems
GNOME has released version 50.5, a bugfix update for the GNOME 50 "Tokyo" branch, which includes three significant security patches addressing vulnerabilities in gvfs, librsvg, and Epiphany. This update also introduces a screen-time lockout feature that prevents users from unlocking the screen after reaching their designated limit, along with fixes for various bugs in GNOME Shell, Mutter, and GDM. While the release has been described as "boring," it is intended to be a stable and safe upgrade for users still on GNOME 50, especially as GNOME 51 is already stable. Overall, version 50.5 serves to extend the support for GNOME 50 while providing essential security and usability improvements
Microsoft has released PowerToys Preview v0.101.2684.0, focusing on significant updates to the Command Palette, including a UI language selector, improved "Window Walker" search functionality, and theme-aware parameter boxes. The update also addresses a security issue in the Keyboard Manager regarding "Run program" mappings that unintentionally inherited administrator privileges, along with an installer fix for context-menu updates. This release follows shortly after the previous version, and aims to enhance the overall user experience while preparing for the upcoming stable release of PowerToys 0.102, slated for completion on October 5, 2026. Future updates for version 0.102 are set to include tabbed pages for the Command Palette, TypeScript and JavaScript SDK support, and various improvements to other PowerToys utilities
Faugus has released version 2.4.2 of its open-source launcher for running Windows games on Linux, introducing a custom color picker for the Overview panel and app background while also reducing the Flatpak build size by eliminating an unnecessary Wine dependency. The update addresses minor issues, such as fixing a broken "Stop" button and a bug with the system tray's working directory, and it maintains a focus on customization and usability. Faugus has seen rapid development, with three versions released in one week, showcasing the team's commitment to improving the software quickly. The project has garnered a solid following on GitHub, drawing on community contributions and aiming to simplify the gaming experience for Linux users
Debian 14, codenamed "forky," is calling for desktop artwork proposals with a submission deadline of November 26, 2026. The Debian Desktop Team has extended the deadline and is seeking a winning theme that will be featured prominently across various elements of the operating system. This release is significant as it will mandate reproducible builds and introduce LoongArch64 as an official architecture, aiming for improved build integrity and hardware compatibility. The team emphasizes practicality in theme submissions, seeking designs that are visually appealing yet do not require extensive modifications to core software
Multron Win Cleaner is a robust utility designed to optimize the performance of Windows operating systems. The latest version, 1.24.4 Beta, offers a range of cleaning and optimization tools that help users remove unnecessary files, manage startup applications, and streamline system processes. This ensures that computers operate smoothly and efficiently.
GoodSync 12.11.8 has been released, providing users with a versatile tool for backing up and syncing files across various devices without relying on cloud services. This software facilitates seamless synchronization between computers, mobile devices, and external drives, as well as compatibility with various online storage platforms such as FTP, Amazon S3, Google Drive, and Azure.
Driver Genius Professional 26.0.0.164 has been released, enhancing its functionality as a premier tool for backing up and restoring drivers on your system. This software efficiently identifies all devices connected to your machine and allows you to back up drivers in convenient formats, such as ZIP or self-extracting EXE files, which simplifies the process of driver reinstallation. It features a restore-drivers function that expedites operating system reinstallation by automatically installing the necessary drivers with just a single click.
VOVSOFT has recently released version 16.7 of its text editing software, VOVSOFT Text Edit Plus. This application serves as a robust and user-friendly text editor, equipped with a variety of features that enhance the editing experience. Users can easily modify text files and access quick statistics, making it a suitable alternative to Notepad for creating and editing documents.
FocusMe has released version 8.0.6.7 of its productivity and distraction-blocking application. Designed for those who struggle with time management due to distractions from websites, apps, and games, FocusMe aims to help users regain control over their focus and productivity. The app is particularly beneficial for students, remote workers, and individuals with ADHD, who often find themselves sidetracked by platforms like YouTube or TikTok.
Steam Inventory Helper (SIH) has released version 2.11.12 of its browser extension, available for Chrome and Edge, designed to enhance the Steam market and inventory experience. This tool acts as a personal assistant for users, making it easier to manage inventory and marketplace activities. SIH automates repetitive tasks, such as quick-selling items and bulk listing, thereby saving users considerable time.
Dopamine has released version 3.0.11, enhancing its capabilities as a user-friendly music player and organizer. This software supports a wide array of audio formats including MP3, OGG, Vorbis, FLAC, WMA, and M4A, making it versatile for different music libraries. In addition to local files, Dopamine allows users to stream their Spotify music, providing a seamless experience for music lovers.
PeaZip 11.3.0 has been released, emphasizing security improvements by making a master password mandatory for its Password Manager, thereby addressing vulnerabilities related to unprotected stored credentials. The update also enhances ZPAQ support for encrypted archives and introduces a new "Open With" picker feature, along with two new themes and various usability enhancements. Additional security measures include improved handling of PEA extractions and stricter verification processes for file extensions and DLLs. This release is particularly important for users concerned about privacy, as it builds on previous updates to mitigate security risks and solidify its position as a secure archiving tool
TotalAV has released version 7.1.17, an antivirus and antimalware security suite designed to safeguard PCs against various online threats such as viruses, malware, and phishing sites. The free version serves primarily as an on-demand scanner, while the paid versions provide essential real-time protection.
HelpEdit is a free, versatile help authoring tool designed for Windows, aimed at creating high-quality documentation such as user manuals, online help systems, and technical guides. Its recent release, version 2.2, brings enhancements that further empower authors to produce organized and accessible content.
Login AlertX is a robust security tool designed to alert users whenever their computer is accessed, providing a crucial layer of protection for personal information. This application serves as an early warning system for unauthorized access, empowering users to respond swiftly to potential security threats.
Today's hardware reviews cover a range of products, including the Strix Halo mini PC, a high-end gaming laptop, an AM5 Mini-ITX motherboard, and two power supplies, revealing that many bold marketing claims do not hold up under testing. The BOSGAME M5 offers great value at $3,099, but struggles with latency compared to the more expensive ASUS GX10. The GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 Gen 2 gaming laptop, while powerful, suffers from high noise and heat levels, and its "world's fastest" claim is contested by rivals. Additionally, both the Gamemax and Gamdias power supplies showcase discrepancies between their marketed ratings and real-world performance, reinforcing the necessity of relying on benchmarks over specifications when making purchasing decisions
On September 25, 2026, Microsoft released four new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds focused on accessibility, energy recommendations, and cross-device continuity, skipping the Dev and Future Platforms channels. The Beta Channel Build 26220.9568 introduced features like a Pointer Indicator for low-vision users, a new contrast theme for the Magnifier, and hover previews for the Phone Link companion. The Experimental Channel Build 26340.9577 expanded Narrator's math reading capabilities to six languages and added Energy Recommendations directly in Quick Settings. While these features enhance usability, Microsoft cautions that they are experimental and may change or be removed in future updates
Shelly ALPM, a GTK4 package manager for Arch Linux, released version 3.1.5 on September 25 and a bug-fix patch version 3.1.6 the following day. The v3.1.5 update introduced an optional Atoll-powered AUR browser, a build-and-install command that streamlines dependency handling, and enhancements to repository management tools. Additionally, the update included compatibility fixes for various packages and improvements to the user experience, such as better PATH handling and the ability to manage private repositories. The subsequent v3.1.6 release addressed a minor UI bug related to the CLI command fetching data, highlighting the team's responsiveness to user feedback
RemotePC has recently released version 7.7.14.8, enhancing its capabilities for secure remote desktop access that allows users to connect to their computers from any location at any time. This functionality supports flexible work arrangements, ultimately boosting productivity by providing reliable access to remote devices.
BUtil version 2026.09.25 has been released, introducing a robust tool for creating encrypted backups of essential documents and data on personal computers. Regular backups are crucial for protecting important files against unforeseen mishaps, and BUtil simplifies this process, making it more likely that users will incorporate backups into their routine. Unlike traditional Windows tools, BUtil offers a fast and user-friendly interface to quickly set up backup tasks.
The Fedora RISC-V community has released non-official Beta images for Fedora 45, including Server, Cloud, and Container builds aimed at testing on RISC-V hardware. These images offer two kernel options: a stable "Generic" kernel and a broader "Omni" kernel that supports more hardware but with less stability. While the images are not officially supported by Fedora and are primarily for testing and package building, they represent a significant step towards making Fedora Linux compatible with RISC-V architecture. Users are encouraged to test these images using QEMU before deploying on physical hardware, as the testing phase is still in its early stages and may present challenges
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