Gaming on KDE Plasma Just Got Better: What's New in the Upcoming Update

Controller Inputs Recognized as Activity

KDE Plasma, a beloved desktop environment for Linux, is set to receive a major upgrade for gamers. The upcoming version 6.6.0, expected in mid-February, will finally resolve a long-standing issue: controller inputs not being recognized as activity. This means your PC won't go to sleep or lock the screen during intense gaming sessions, even if you're only using a controller.

This update is part of KDE's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience. The team regularly shares updates through their "This Week in Plasma" blog, giving fans a sneak peek into future features. While the 6.5.5 update is just around the corner, the 6.6.0 release has some exciting changes in store.

Key Improvements in 6.6.0

1. Controller Input Recognition

Prevents the system from automatically going to sleep or locking the screen during gameplay.
A small but significant upgrade for gamers who rely on controllers.

2. Laptop Power State Awareness

The system will now wake up aware of its power state, whether it's plugged in or unplugged.
No more surprises when you open your laptop after it's been asleep.

3. Plasma Panel Stability

Fixes one of the most common crashes related to the Plasma panel.
Makes the desktop environment more stable and reliable.

4. Spectacle Screenshot Tool Improvements

Fixes an issue where toolbars in Rectangular Region mode could appear off-screen in multi-monitor setups.
Particularly useful for users with multiple screens who need to capture specific areas of their display.

The Road Ahead

While these updates are welcome, it's important to remember that KDE Plasma is not perfect. It has its quirks and issues, but the team is continuously working to improve it. The upcoming 6.6.0 update is a testament to their dedication to making the desktop environment better for all users.

For now, gamers will have to wait until mid-February for the update. Until then, they might need to keep wiggling their mice to prevent their systems from going to sleep. But with the promise of these improvements, it's a wait that should be worth it.