Quarkos 26.04 Released with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Base and KDE Plasma 6.6
Quarkos 26.04 is now available as a stable release, bringing a fresh Ubuntu-based Linux experience built on Ubuntu 26.04 “Resolute Raccoon” LTS. Designed for users who want a polished desktop system with long-term reliability, this release combines the stability of an Ubuntu LTS foundation with the familiar tools and desktop-focused approach associated with Q4OS.
One of the biggest highlights of Quarkos 26.04 is its long support window. Since it is based on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, the distribution is expected to receive updates until at least May 2031. If Ubuntu’s extended support cycle expands further, Quarkos 26.04 could potentially remain supported for up to ten years, extending its lifespan as far as May 2036.
The default edition of Quarkos 26.04 ships with KDE Plasma 6.6, giving users a modern, customizable, and visually refined desktop environment. KDE Plasma continues to be a popular choice among Linux users thanks to its flexibility, performance, and wide range of configuration options. For those who prefer a more traditional desktop experience, a Trinity Desktop Environment edition is also expected to arrive later, featuring Trinity 14.1.6.
Although Quarkos includes Q4OS tools, it does not use a Debian core. Instead, it relies on Ubuntu 26.04 as its base, making it a strong option for users who want Ubuntu compatibility while still enjoying a different desktop setup and additional convenience tools.
Quarkos 26.04 also comes with a practical selection of preinstalled software. Users can expect essential applications for everyday computing, including office and productivity programs, web browsing tools, communication apps, multimedia utilities for audio, video, and image handling, plus system management and customization tools. This makes the distribution suitable for both new Linux users and experienced users looking for a ready-to-use desktop system.
Key software components included in Quarkos 26.04 include glibc 2.43, Firefox 151.0, GRUB 2.14, Bash 5.3, alsa-lib 1.2.15.3, X.Org Server 21.1.22, rsync 3.4.1, APT 3.2.0, sudo 1.9.17p2, Xwayland 24.1.10, and wget 1.25.0. These updated packages help ensure better hardware support, improved system performance, and access to newer Linux technologies.
The KDE Plasma edition of Quarkos 26.04 is available as a 2.5 GB ISO image. At the moment, the newest Trinity edition still belongs to the previous 24.04 release series and comes in a smaller 1.6 GB ISO image.
With its Ubuntu 26.04 LTS base, KDE Plasma 6.6 desktop, long-term support, and ready-made software selection, Quarkos 26.04 is shaping up to be an appealing Linux distribution for users who want a stable, customizable, and efficient operating system for daily use.
