Raspberry Pi updates Desktop OS to revive older PCs

Raspberry Pi has released a new version of Raspberry Pi Desktop, based on Debian 13 Trixie, designed to run on standard x86-64 PCs and Intel-based Macs. This update marks a significant return for the project, which provides a lightweight Linux environment suitable for reviving older hardware that may no longer support modern operating systems like Windows 11.

The new distribution features Linux kernel 6.12 and Wayland, offering a modern foundation for tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and programming. Because it is a lightweight system, it is particularly effective for older notebooks, mini PCs, or laboratory computers that require low resource consumption.

Users can test the operating system directly from a USB drive to verify hardware compatibility—including Wi-Fi, audio, and webcams—before committing to a full installation. Regarding hardware specifications, the Raspberry Pi 5 is available in various RAM configurations ranging from 1 GB to 16 GB. Unlike standard PCs, the RAM in Raspberry Pi boards cannot be upgraded after purchase, though the Linux-based OS typically requires significantly less memory than Windows or macOS.