KDE Plasma continues its rise as an essential Linux desktop environment with its recently released version 6.7. More than a revolution, this precise update refines several details that greatly improve the user experience. Among the changes, the arrival of virtual desktops dedicated to each screen is generating the most buzz.
Improved ergonomics thanks to independent virtual desktops per screen
KDE users have long been requesting more granular control over virtual desktops when multiple monitors are involved. Version 6.7 finally addresses this need, offering each screen its own set of virtual desktops.
The universal switching that applied to all screens simultaneously is gone. This evolution is a significant technical and ergonomic advancement that puts KDE Plasma ahead of some competitors like GNOME. Working across multiple screens now becomes natural and less confusing. It’s somewhat reminiscent of having several workstations, each with its files neatly organized and within easy reach.
In parallel, the overview view makes it even easier to quickly switch between virtual desktops, making the system smoother and more responsive on a daily basis.
Improvements that may seem minor but make a difference
Some changes may seem minor, but they truly improve usability. For example, the volume mixer now includes a quick microphone test. No need to search for a third-party tool when you want to check that your microphone is working before a meeting or call.
As for the printer icon in the status bar, it now displays the number of print jobs in progress. This is simple but valuable information when several documents are waiting to be printed without having to open a dedicated utility.
The interface is refined and the Oxygen theme is reborn with Plasma 6.7
KDE hasn’t just refined the functionality. Theme customization is now simpler. A single CSS file is all you need to configure Plasma, as well as applications using QtQuick and QtWidgets. This is a significant improvement for theme developers and advanced users.
This version offers a nod to the past with the revival of the classic Oxygen theme from KDE 4. This theme has been updated and blends seamlessly with Breeze, the current default theme. A welcome throwback for those who appreciate nostalgia without sacrificing modernity.
Advanced support for ICC and HDR color profiles
For photo and video enthusiasts, KDE Plasma 6.7 expands color management. It is now possible to use ICC and HDR profiles simultaneously. This combination offers greater precision for editing while maintaining a pleasant multimedia experience.
An improvement that will appeal to both professionals and demanding amateurs, while reinforcing Plasma’s image as a robust environment suitable for various technical uses.
Full compatibility with Wayland and Vulkan for a stable and high-performing future
Plasma 6.7 also continues its progress under Wayland, the increasingly mature display environment. The KWin window manager adopts fractional scaling support via the xx-fractional-scale-v2 protocol, which significantly improves high-resolution displays.
And that’s not all; multi-GPU support with Vulkan is now better managed, resulting in smoother and more efficient graphics processing. These advancements aim to prepare KDE for the future of the Linux desktop environment in light of evolving hardware.
- Virtual desktops dedicated to each screen improving multi-monitor management.
- A microphone test integrated into the volume mixer for a quick fix.
- A printer icon displaying current jobs, more practical.
- A simplified theme system thanks to a unified CSS file.
- The Oxygen theme revisitedcombining nostalgia and modernity.
- Combined support for ICC and HDR profiles for advanced color management.
- Improvements under Wayland with fractional scaling and multi-GPU Vulkan.
For those interested, KDE Plasma 6.7 is available as a disk image or through distribution updates. It’s a solid update that doesn’t revolutionize everything but refines the user experience in several key areas. A good example of gradual and thoughtful improvement.
Discover the official announcement of KDE Plasma 6.7 For more technical details and illustrative images, you can also consult a detailed review of the new features of KDE Plasma 6.7 with a focus on Wayland and Vulkan.
What are the main advantages of independent virtual offices?
They allow you to manage multiple virtual desktops on each screen, facilitating multitasking when using multiple monitors.
How does KDE Plasma 6.7 improve color management?
The version supports both ICC and HDR profiles simultaneously, providing better color accuracy for editing and a display suitable for multimedia consumption.
Is the new theme system accessible to non-technical users?
Yes, simplifying to a single CSS file makes customization easier for everyone, even those who don’t want to delve into the complexities of themes.
What improvements made to Wayland are notable?
Fractional scaling via an experimental protocol and improved multi-GPU Vulkan management enhance stability and graphics performance.
How do I install KDE Plasma 6.7?
The new version is available as a disk image and will be gradually deployed by the relevant Linux distributions.
Source: www.lesnumeriques.com
