CobaltX 0.3 adds X Mode, handheld support for gaming Linux distro
CobaltX 0.3 introduces X Mode, a full-screen controller-first game launcher with dedicated login session, plus handheld device support via Handheld Daemon.
Summary
Anton Batishchev has released CobaltX 0.3, an Arch Linux-based gaming distribution. The update adds X Mode, a full-screen game launcher accessible as its own login session, alongside support for handheld devices including ROG Ally, Legion Go, and MSI Claw. The release also includes a themed on-screen keyboard, controller-based desktop navigation, and tools for managing TDP, brightness, and volume.
What changes in CobaltX 0.3
- X Mode: full-screen, controller-first launcher with its own login session; integrates Steam, Heroic, Bottles, Lutris, and user-added games
- Handheld support: built-in controls and back buttons via Handheld Daemon for ROG Ally family, Legion Go, MSI Claw, and others
- Quick settings and TDP controls: performance modes, power limit in watts, brightness, and volume available in both X Mode and desktop
- CobaltX keyboard: themed on-screen keyboard that works with any app or game via controller or touch input
- Controller cursor: analog stick functions as mouse on desktop
- Library management: manual addition of AppImages, .exe files, scripts, or ROMs; app switcher with force-close for frozen applications
Why it matters
CobaltX joins a growing field of gaming-focused Linux distributions competing for handheld and living-room PC users, with X Mode representing an explicit interface choice comparable to Steam Big Picture or Bazzite's gaming mode.
Original reference: distrowatch.com →