Raspberry Pi updates desktop OS with optional dock and memory optimizations

Raspberry Pi has updated its official desktop operating system to include modern interface features while maintaining its signature simplicity. The update introduces an optional application dock that can be used alongside or instead of the traditional taskbar, offering a user experience more similar to contemporary macOS or Linux environments.

Key features of the update include a graphical application launcher that organizes icons alphabetically with drag-and-drop support, and a quick launcher/task list widget. This widget displays numerical counters on icons to indicate the number of open windows. The system, which is evolving on Wayland and labwc, also includes a new background rendering engine designed to reduce RAM consumption, specifically benefiting older hardware.

These changes are entirely optional. Users who prefer the classic layout, which has remained largely unchanged for over a decade, can continue to use the traditional top taskbar and menu system without modification.