Raspberry Pi Desktop Moved to Debian 13
The release shifts the OS to a 64-bit architecture and adopts the Linux 6.12 LTS kernel for x86 and Mac systems.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Computers
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The Raspberry Pi project has launched a new version of its desktop operating system based on Debian 13 Trixie. This release mandates 64-bit architecture, effectively ending support for 32-bit systems on PC and Mac hardware.
Why it matters
By aligning with the latest long-term support kernel and shifting to 64-bit, the project streamlines its development stack and security updates. This release modernizes the platform for x86 users while formalizing the transition away from legacy 32-bit computing.
The distribution is built on Debian 13 Trixie and utilizes the Linux 6.12 LTS kernel. It is exclusively available for 64-bit architectures, specifically targeting x86_64 machines and Intel-based Macs.
The players
Raspberry Pi
An organization known for developing single-board computers and the Debian-based Raspberry Pi OS.
The details
Installation is performed by flashing the ISO image to a USB drive and utilizing the Calamares graphical installer, a standardized setup tool for Linux distributions. Once launched, users access the system through a desktop shortcut or the System Tools menu. The update integrates the Raspberry Pi Connect client to facilitate remote access and management features directly within the environment.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: The Raspberry Pi Desktop variant became available for public download.
The Tech Race
This release follows the upstream release cycle of the Debian Project to maintain parity with current security and kernel standards. It marks a decisive move to abandon legacy 32-bit support in favor of the 64-bit architecture common in modern consumer computing.
Users of older 32-bit systems will no longer receive updates as the project discontinues support for that architecture. Those with Intel-based Macs or standard PCs can install the new version via USB, though users with Apple Silicon should treat the experience as experimental.
The takeaway
The move to a 64-bit, Debian 13-based environment forces a modernization of the Raspberry Pi desktop user base. Keep an eye on future updates regarding the experimental support for Apple Silicon as the project optimizes for ARM-based Mac hardware.
Further reading
For more on the project's development, visit the Computers section.
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