Enlightenment 0.28 adds PipeWire audio, NetworkManager module, NetBSD support

Enlightenment 0.28 has been released, bringing several substantial additions to the lightweight desktop environment that has served as a long-standing alternative to GNOME and KDE on Linux. The release introduces native PipeWire support, replacing or supplementing earlier PulseAudio-only audio handling, and adds a new NetworkManager module for integrated network connection management. Other notable changes include initial NetBSD support expanding the project's portability beyond Linux, new mixer actions for audio control, and an integrated clipboard history module for improved user workflow.

The release continues Enlightenment's tradition of providing a highly configurable, low-resource desktop while modernizing its underlying subsystem integrations. PipeWire support aligns Enlightenment with the broader Linux audio and video infrastructure transition that Fedora, Ubuntu, and other major distributions have completed. The NetworkManager module reduces reliance on external applets or command-line tools for wireless and wired network configuration. NetBSD support marks the first significant BSD platform expansion for the project in recent releases.

What changes in Enlightenment 0.28

• PipeWire audio subsystem: Native support for PipeWire replaces or supplements previous PulseAudio-only audio handling, integrating with the modern Linux audio/video server that most major distributions now default to.
• NetworkManager module: A new built-in module provides integrated network connection management directly within the Enlightenment desktop, eliminating the need for standalone NM applets or external tools.
• NetBSD portability: Initial support for the NetBSD operating system expands Enlightenment's platform reach beyond Linux, involving build system and compatibility layer adjustments.
• Mixer actions: New audio mixer control actions have been added, allowing users to bind volume and device management to key shortcuts or desktop widgets.
• Clipboard history module: An integrated clipboard history module is now included by default, providing persistent copy-paste buffer management without requiring third-party tools like CopyQ or Parcellite.

Why it matters

For Linux distribution maintainers and users of lightweight desktops, Enlightenment's PipeWire adoption removes a significant compatibility friction point as distributions continue deprecating PulseAudio. The integrated NetworkManager module and clipboard history reduce the typical patchwork of standalone system tray utilities that lightweight environments require. NetBSD support, while niche, demonstrates the project's commitment to cross-platform portability and may attract BSD developers to contribute upstream improvements that benefit all platforms.