Sparky Linux, a Debian testing-based semi-rolling release, has rolled out an update, bringing the system’s packages up to date with the latest from both Debian and Sparky’s testing repositories as of August 12, 2024.
A standout feature in this release is the enhanced Sparky CLI Installer, which now offers an option for encrypting the home partition, significantly bolstering data security right from the installation phase.
Moreover, including the Linux kernel 6.10.3 and other newer and long-term support versions boosts system stability and compatibility across a wider range of hardware.
And one slightly surprising move—Sparky 2024.08 introduces Midori as the default web browser. Along with the AstianGo search engine, this combo offers a lighter, faster, and privacy-focused browsing experience. But will it be to users’ liking?
Developers will find updated tools like GCC 14 and Python 3.12.4 especially useful, providing modern resources for software development.
Meanwhile, everyday users will appreciate the updated versions of popular applications such as Firefox 129, Thunderbird 115, and LibreOffice 24.2, which come with new features and improved performance.
Users of the current Sparky rolling release do not need to reinstall their operating system. Upgrade via the command line by executing sudo sparky-upgrade to get the latest.
For those opting for a fresh install, Sparky 2024.08 semi-rolling is available in various versions, including LXQt, KDE, MATE, Xfce, MinimalGUI (Openbox), and MinimalCLI (text mode), available from the project’s download page.
Refer to the release announcement for detailed information.
Once again, another try and another disappointment. Sparky 2023.07 Rolling would not even boot from the flash drive on my Dell Latitude 7490 laptop. Sparky 2024.05 Rolling installed OK but would not run. Didn't even bring up the desktop! It is unfortunate that Sparky is headed by just one person and is a one-man distribution. I think that's the main reason why Sparky has become so buggy in the past few years. The developer is spread way too thin and simply can't keep tabs on everything. The number of really reliable distros is also becoming less and less as some developers have become very lax about fixing bugs. I'll stick with Mint 21.3, LMDE6, Ubuntu 24.04 (With snapd completely removed) and Fedora which seems to have highly educated and competent developers.
Midori as the new default browser makes no sense. A peak at their website doesn't spark much confidence. There are typos and nonsensical sentences all over, sections that appear to be hyperlinks that just aren't (Frequently Asked Questions is just a random header… what??); there are issues abound. Hopefully this decision doesn't stick.