Artix Linux 20260402 is now rolling out, bringing a fresh update to the popular Arch-based distribution that’s built for users who want full control without relying on systemd. This release focuses on two big platform-level shifts that many Linux users will immediately notice: a new default display server and a modernized default audio stack.
The headline change is that Artix Linux now ships with XLibre as the default X server, replacing Xorg Server in the default setup. Xorg hasn’t been removed, though. It’s still packaged and available, so anyone who needs it for compatibility or personal preference can continue using it. The difference in 20260402 is simply what you get by default out of the box.
On the audio side, Artix Linux 20260402 moves from PulseAudio to PipeWire as the default audio system in its ISO images. PipeWire has become a go-to choice across many Linux desktops because it’s designed to handle modern audio workflows more flexibly, and it can unify traditional desktop audio needs with lower-latency use cases.
Beyond those major defaults, this update continues Artix’s tradition of offering lots of choice. For desktop environments, the 20260402 release includes KDE Plasma 6.6, Xfce 4.20, Cinnamon 6.6, LXQt 2.3, MATE 1.28, and LXDE 0.11.1. KDE Plasma users also get an extra decision point: you can run your desktop session using Wayland or stick with XLibre, depending on your workflow and hardware support.
Artix also remains focused on init-system flexibility. The release continues to provide images supporting OpenRC, Dinit, s6, and Runit. In 20260402, there’s also improved functionality for people running Dinit and OpenRC, with added support for user services when using those init systems—useful if you rely on per-user background services and want a smoother experience without changing your overall setup philosophy.
Under the hood, Artix Linux 20260402 ships with the Linux 6.19.10 kernel, alongside refreshed core components and updated applications across all editions. That means you’re not just getting new defaults for display and audio—you’re also getting a broad package refresh aimed at keeping the distro current and consistent with the fast-moving Arch ecosystem.
For installation styles, Artix continues to cater to different types of users. Minimalists can opt for base profiles installed from the command line for a lean, build-it-yourself system. If you want a quicker path to a ready-to-use desktop, the community editions come more fully loaded with a broader set of applications for a complete daily-driver experience.
Another practical detail in this release is the variety of available ISO images. Each maintained flavor is offered in multiple images, and each image corresponds to one of the supported init systems. That structure makes it easier to download exactly what you want from the start, rather than swapping core system choices after installation.
With XLibre becoming the new default, PipeWire replacing PulseAudio in the standard images, and strong options spanning desktops and init systems, Artix Linux 20260402 continues to position itself as one of the most customizable ways to run an Arch-style Linux system—especially for users who want modern features without adopting systemd.
