Ubuntu 26.10 beta is out: Linux 7.3, GNOME 51, final Oct 15

The first maintenance update for the 26.8 series brings around 40 bug fixes, with better compatibility for Microsoft Office DOCX, XLSX and PPTX files, plus more reliable text and CSV imports.

A solid stability update for LibreOffice users. 🐧💻

#LibreOffice #Linux #OpenSource #FOSS

Parrot OS 7.4 is out today, October 3, 2026, with a rebuilt AnonSurf 6.0 and Linux kernel 7.1, according to the official release notes.

• AnonSurf 6.0, Parrot's switch for routing all traffic through Tor, gets a Go backend, a Qt6 interface, and systemd services. DNS, firewall, IPv6, and Tor changes now apply and roll back as one transaction, and interrupted sessions recover at boot.
• Linux 7.1 brings newer hardware support and driver updates.
• Easier setup: the Discovery welcome screen now ships on the ISO, and Rocket 2.0 makes containerized tools easier to manage.
• ARM: virtual machine images target AArch64 for UTM on Apple Silicon Macs, and the Raspberry Pi images are updated.

Already on Parrot 7? Run sudo parrot-upgrade, Parrot's wrapper that refreshes package lists and performs a full upgrade. Deciding between the two big security distros? Read Kali Linux vs Parrot OS, or see the Parrot OS profile for editions and requirements.

Source: Parrot 7.4 release notes. Also covered by 9to5Linux and Linuxiac.

🎬 Shotcut 26.9 is here!
Major updates for this open-source video editor:
✅ Improved VA-API HEVC hardware encoder on Linux 🐧
✅ FFmpeg 9.0 support
✅ 32-bit float audio pipeline
✅ Faster timeline performance

A new report indicates that Valve is considering a significant structural change to its operating system, potentially splitting SteamOS into two separate branches: one optimized for ARM architecture and another for x86.
Why the Split?
Currently, SteamOS is primarily built around the x86 architecture (used in the Steam Deck and most PCs). However, with the growing interest in ARM-based handhelds and devices (like the Nintendo Switch successors or Windows-on-ARM laptops), Valve may be looking to optimize performance and battery life more effectively for each specific hardware type.
What This Means for Users:
🔹 Better Optimization: Dedicated builds could mean smoother performance and longer battery life on ARM devices.
🔹 Broader Compatibility: An x86-focused version would continue to support the vast library of PC games and existing Steam Deck hardware without compromise.
🔹 Future-Proofing: As more manufacturers enter the handheld gaming market with different chipsets, a split OS could allow Valve to partner with a wider range of hardware makers.
The Bigger Picture
This move aligns with Valve’s broader strategy to make PC gaming more accessible and versatile beyond traditional desktop setups. By tailoring the OS to specific architectures, Valve could strengthen its position as the go-to platform for next-gen handheld gaming.
While nothing is officially confirmed by Valve yet, this development suggests we might see a more modular approach to SteamOS in the near future.