Fedora KDE Plasma 44: Key Features and Improvements

Fedora KDE Plasma Desktop Edition 44 is now available, combining the rock-solid Fedora Linux base with the latest KDE Plasma desktop environment. This release brings a host of enhancements—from refined user interface options to deeper hardware support—making it a compelling choice for both newcomers and seasoned Linux enthusiasts. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about what Fedora KDE Plasma 44 offers, how it improves on previous versions, and what you can expect when you install or upgrade.

What's new in KDE Plasma 6.6.4 with this release?

KDE Plasma 6.6.4 arrives with several thoughtful features that polish the daily desktop experience. You can now create and save custom global themes directly from your current setup, making personalization a breeze. For window aesthetics, a tint intensity slider lets you adjust color accents on window frames—perfect for blending colors more subtly. Connecting to Wi-Fi networks becomes a snap with QR code scanning built into the network manager. From the task manager, you can adjust per-application volume without opening separate settings. Accessibility sees notable improvements: a grayscale filter aids colorblind users, a screen magnifier tracks your mouse pointer, and new options for slow keys and reduced motion help those with motor or visual sensitivities. The screenshot utility Spectacle now supports OCR to extract text from images, and screen recording includes a per-window filter accessed via the title bar menu. These updates build on Plasma 6's foundation to deliver a more seamless and friendly interface.

Fedora KDE Plasma 44: Key Features and Improvements — Source: fedoramagazine.org

How does the fresh installation experience differ in Fedora KDE 44?

Fedora KDE 44 introduces a brand-new Plasma Setup and Plasma Login Manager for fresh installations. This overhaul means that from first power-on, you’re greeted with a cohesive, integrated experience. The installation process itself has been simplified: fewer steps and clearer prompts make it easy to set up a Fedora KDE system even for a friend or relative who may not be a Linux expert. The goal is to reduce friction and deliver a polished, out-of-the-box impression that mirrors the desktop environment's philosophy of being simple by default yet powerful when needed.

What happened to the on-screen keyboard in this edition?

The on-screen keyboard has been replaced with the new Plasma Keyboard, a forward-looking implementation designed for better input handling. Whether you’re using a touchscreen device, a tablet, or simply need an alternative to a physical keyboard, Plasma Keyboard provides a fresh user interface that adapts well to different screen sizes and orientations. It offers improved responsiveness and a more modern look, aligning with KDE's efforts to make the desktop environment more versatile for both traditional and mobile form factors.

What major Fedora Linux 44 updates affect the KDE edition?

Broader changes in Fedora Linux 44 directly impact the KDE edition. Most notably, PackageKit now uses version 5 of the DNF package manager as its backend, which brings faster dependency resolution and improved performance when installing or updating software. Support has been added for select Qualcomm-based laptops, expanding Fedora KDE's hardware compatibility. Additionally, the file /etc/pki/tls/cert.pem is no longer present by default. Some applications may need adjustments if they rely on that file for system CA certificates; modern cryptographic libraries provide this information natively, so the change encourages better security practices.

Can I run Fedora KDE 44 on non-Intel or AMD hardware?

Yes, this edition extends support to Qualcomm-based laptops, making it a viable option for ARM-powered devices. This is a significant step forward for Fedora KDE, as it broadens the range of hardware that can run the desktop environment smoothly. While the primary focus remains on x86_64 systems, the inclusion of Qualcomm support means more users can enjoy the Fedora KDE experience on modern, energy-efficient hardware without compromising on performance or features.

How does Fedora Ready support the KDE edition?

The Fedora Ready program fully embraces Fedora KDE Plasma Desktop 44. This initiative actively engages hardware vendors to test and certify their devices for Fedora KDE, ensuring a reliable experience out of the box. One notable partner is Star Labs, a company that builds computers with open source firmware (Coreboot) and a strong open ethos. Star Labs now offers Fedora KDE preinstalled as an option on their portfolio, reflecting growing vendor confidence in the Fedora KDE combination. For users, this means fewer driver or compatibility headaches when selecting a new laptop or desktop that comes with Fedora KDE pre-configured.

Are there any changes to how I manage software or certificates?

Yes, two key updates affect software management and security. First, PackageKit relies on DNF5, the latest version of RPM-based package management, for all backend operations. This brings speed improvements and better dependency handling when you use graphical tools like Discover or the Software Center. Second, the system no longer ships the /etc/pki/tls/cert.pem file by default. Instead, cryptographic security libraries provide CA certificate information internally. If you run an older script or application that expects that file, you may need to adjust it to use the library-level certificate handling. Both changes aim to streamline performance and security in Fedora KDE 44.

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