Rhino Linux 2026.1 expands Lomiri support and refreshes its rolling Ubuntu-based experience
Rhino Linux 2026.1 is now available, bringing a fresh set of snapshot images for users who want an Ubuntu-based rolling release with a strong focus on flexibility, community development, and modern Linux package management.
Built around Pacstall and the Xfce desktop, Rhino Linux continues to stand out by combining the familiarity of Ubuntu with a rolling release model. Instead of waiting for traditional fixed-version upgrades, users can stay closer to the latest software updates while still benefiting from the broader Ubuntu ecosystem.
One of the biggest highlights in Rhino Linux 2026.1 is the wider availability of Lomiri. Previously aimed mainly at mobile users, Lomiri is now offered through generic ISO images for both x86_64 and ARM64 systems. This means more users can try the interface across desktops, laptops, and ARM-powered devices.
The Rhino Linux team notes that Lomiri on generic systems is still developing, so users should expect an experience that continues to improve over time. Even so, the expansion is an important step for those interested in a convergent Linux interface that can work across desktop and mobile environments.
Rhino Linux is more than just a base system with a desktop environment. The distribution includes several custom tools designed to make daily use easier. These include a system information and software update utility, a post-installation setup wizard, a package management wrapper that works with Pacstall, APT, Snaps, and Flatpaks, a custom ISO builder, and a tailored Calamares installer.
For users who want one place to manage software from multiple Linux packaging formats, Rhino Linux keeps that goal at the center of its design. Its package management approach is especially useful for people who want access to Ubuntu packages, user-maintained Pacstall packages, Snap applications, and Flatpak apps without constantly switching tools.
Rhino Linux 2026.1 also ships with the Pacstall 6.4.x series. This update introduces new internal variables such as DNUM and CDNUM, adds the PACSTALL_XTRACEFD and PACSTALL_XTRACEFDLOG environment variables, and allows KVER to be exported to pre-installation and post-installation scripts. These changes are mainly aimed at improving package handling, scripting, debugging, and maintainability for advanced users and package maintainers.
Kernel versions vary depending on the image and target device. Generic ISO images use the 7.0.9-generic kernel. PinePhone and PineTab images use 6.18.32-sunxi, while PinePhone Pro images ship with 6.18.32-rockchip. PineTab2 builds include the 6.9.0-okpine kernel, and Raspberry Pi images use 7.0.0-raspi.
With this release, Rhino Linux continues building its identity as a rolling Ubuntu-based distribution for users who want choice, frequent updates, and broad device support. The addition of Lomiri to generic desktop and ARM64 images makes the 2026.1 snapshot especially interesting for Linux enthusiasts who enjoy testing alternative desktop experiences and cross-device interfaces.
Rhino Linux 2026.1 ISO images are available through the project’s official download options, with builds provided for generic PCs, ARM64 systems, Raspberry Pi devices, and supported mobile hardware.
