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Are the Amazing New Features in Fedora 43 Worth the Potential Annoyance of an Upgrade?
Fedora Linux 43 has been released. This update brings important improvements that make your computer safer, easier to use, and more powerful. Let’s look at what these changes mean for you.
A Simpler Installation
The installation process for all versions of Fedora is now handled by the Anaconda WebUI. This new installer replaces the old one, providing a more modern and straightforward experience when you set up Fedora on your computer.
Core System Upgrades
Several key parts of the system have been improved for better security and performance. The boot partition size has been increased from 1 GiB to 2 GiB. This change gives the system more room for startup files, which helps prevent errors as the system gets updated over time.
The software package manager is now RPM 6.0. This upgrade makes your system more secure. It adds support for multiple signatures on each software package and uses stronger encryption keys, which helps verify that your software is authentic and safe.
This release also includes updated versions of essential programming tools and system software.
- Python 3.14
- Golang 1.25
- LLVM 21
- PostgreSQL 18
- Linux Kernel 6.17
A Redesigned Desktop Experience
The GNOME desktop environment has received several design updates. The search feature within the Nautilus file manager has been redesigned, helping you find your files more quickly. The Settings application also has a new look, making it simpler to configure your system.
A new Focus Mode is now available in the quick settings panel. This feature works like a “Do Not Disturb” mode, silencing notifications so you can concentrate on your work without interruptions.
New Default Applications
Fedora 43 introduces two new applications as defaults.
- Showtime is the new video player, replacing the previous one (Totem).
- Papers is the new application for viewing documents.
The Full Transition to Wayland
A significant change in this version is that the GNOME desktop now uses Wayland exclusively. The older X11 display system is no longer supported in the main version of Fedora with GNOME. Users still on X11 will be moved to Wayland automatically.
Wayland is a more modern display technology that offers several benefits, such as improved support for fractional scaling on high-resolution displays and High Dynamic Range (HDR) color. The update also enhances support for multiple monitors and improves drivers for Intel Xe graphics and systems with NVIDIA Optimus technology.
Updates for Other Fedora Versions
Other versions of Fedora also received updates.
- The KDE Plasma desktop version now includes Plasma 6.4.5.
- Atomic Fedora Kinoite 43 now has automatic weekly updates enabled by default, ensuring your system stays current with less effort.
You can download the new Fedora 43 release from the official website.