Linux-based gaming OS Bazzite 44 is now available with more than 700 changes and improvements

Linux-based gaming OS Bazzite 44 is now available with more than 700 changes and improvements

ByEthan Collins

The distribution for gaming teams that opt ​​for free software, Bazzite, has been updated to the version 44which initially reached desktop computers, and is now updating portable devices that have it installed. A great update with more than 700 changes registered that make it one of the most important to date. In addition, the developers also hope to simultaneously distribute updates going forward.

Bazzite 44 updates the Linux kernel and Mesa drivers

Entering fully with the important changes, Bazzite 44 now integrates Open Gaming Collective’s Linux 7.2.0 kernelalong with the drivers Mesa 26.2.1some notable changes from the previous version of Kernel 6.19 and Mesa 26.0.5.

Bazzite 44 improves VRAM management for gaming

Regarding the changes registered for GPUs, a function has been added that allows prioritize gaming over apps running in the background when it comes to VRAM management. This is achieved by reallocating VRAM from other applications that are less important to the game or by limiting requests for video memory that come from software other than the game itself. A function that fixes memory allocation errors when the game required more than what was available.

For users of AMD Radeon cardsHDMI is now available with support for FRL, ALLM and VRR. These options are not currently enabled by default, as further testing is needed before considering them as default features.

New improvements for AMD GPUs and laptops with dual graphics

This version also includes the changes enabled in the kernel 7.3 with scheduler improvementsalong with the latency reduction for Vulkan. Another change related to the GPU is aimed at configurations with two GPUs, such as laptops with integrated and dedicated GPU. Now Cardwire replaces switcheroo and supergfxctlproviding a new graphical interface that allows you to manage and switch between the available GPUs, in addition to the management of the MUXwith support for ASUS laptops.

There is also news for users of NVIDIA graphicswhere compatibility with older models has been expanded thanks to the migration to OGC LTS kernel. How in the latest update, Bazzite 44 already comes with KDE Plasma 6.6, GNOME 50, signed images and new drivers for Elgato capturers, inter alia.

These are the main changesalthough you have all the news in the notes of this version.

  • More than 700 changes: Bazzite 44 incorporates more than 700 modifications compared to previous versions, making it one of the most important updates to the system to date.

  • New Linux kernel 7.2.0 from Open Gaming Collective: Bazzite 44 updates the kernel from the previously used version 6.19 to the Linux 7.2.0 from Open Gaming Collective (OGC).

  • Mesa drivers update: joins Table 26.2.1compared to the previous version 26.0.5, with the corresponding improvements for the GPUs and the graphics section.

  • New VRAM memory management: Games can be prioritized over apps running in the background. Bazzite can reallocate VRAM used by less important applications for the game or limit memory requests from other programs. The goal is to avoid problems when a game requires more VRAM than is available.

  • Improved HDMI support for AMD Radeon GPUs: AMD Radeon graphics cards incorporate support for HDMI FRL, ALLM and VRR. These features are not yet enabled by default as they require further testing before becoming standard features.

  • System Scheduler Improvements: Bazzite 44 includes changes related to the kernel scheduler, aimed at improving the overall performance of the system.

  • Lower latency with Vulkan: improvements have been incorporated specifically aimed at reduce latency in Vulkansomething especially relevant in an operating system focused on gaming.

  • New system for computers with two GPUs: Cardwire replaces switcheroo and supergfxctl and provides a new graphical interface to manage computers that have an integrated GPU and a dedicated one.

  • MUX management: Cardwire also allows you to control the MUX of compatible equipment, making it easy to switch between available GPUs. This feature includes support for ASUS laptops.

  • Better compatibility with older NVIDIA GPUs: NVIDIA graphics card users also receive improvements, as the migration to OGC LTS kernel Allows expanded compatibility with older models.

  • Updating desktop environments: Bazzite 44 incorporates KDE Plasma 6.6 and GNOME 50.

  • Signed images: the new version adds signed imagesreinforcing the distribution and verification process of system images.

  • New drivers for Elgato capturers: New drivers have been added to improve compatibility with Elgato capturers.

  • Simultaneous updates: The developers want that, from now on, new versions can arrive at the same time to desktop computers and portable devicesinstead of being distributed in a staggered manner as has happened with Bazzite 44.

Ethan Collins
Ethan Collins

As a dedicated tech enthusiast and writer at IRC Junkie, I explore the latest innovations in software and hardware. With a background in computer science, I thrive on simplifying complex technological concepts for our readers. My goal is to inspire curiosity and understanding in the ever-evolving world of technology.