KDE’s Plasma 6.8 ends optional X11 sessions as project turns 30
KDE has released the second and final beta of Plasma 6.8, with the full release scheduled for 14 October, the project’s 30th anniversary. The new version will run the desktop on Wayland and end KDE’s optional X11 session; X11 applications will still run through XWayland. The change marks a significant shift in how KDE supports desktop sessions, while anniversary events will also include a feature-length documentary.
Plasma 6.8 continues work on the Union theme engine, which can now style QtWidgets applications such as Dolphin and Kate, though support is preliminary, and further polishes the revived Oxygen theme. For users seeking an older style, Klassik recreates KDE 3’s panels, menu and other desktop elements using Qt 6 and modern KDE libraries, with Wayland and fractional-scaling support. Other projects offer distinct alternatives: Trinity maintains a Qt 3-based KDE environment, while the newer Sonic desktop fork aims to retain X11 support.
- Plasma 6.8 is scheduled for KDE’s 30th anniversary on 14 October.
- It drops the X11 desktop session, while X11 apps remain supported through XWayland.
- Klassik recreates KDE 3’s look with modern Qt 6 technology.
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Originally published by The Register as “KDE turns 30 with Plasma 6.8, but the X11 session isn’t invited”.