KMSCON 10.1 adds per-monitor configuration for multi-display Linux terminals

KMSCON, the user-space terminal emulator that targets Linux DRM/KMS interfaces as a replacement for the legacy in-kernel VT, has released version 10.1 with per-monitor configuration support. This allows users to set distinct resolution, refresh rate, and rotation values for each connected display rather than applying a single global mode across all outputs.

The release addresses longstanding user requests for per-output display configuration and preferred output selection. KMSCON has gained traction as a default component in Fedora 45, GNOME OS, and KDE Linux, positioning this release as relevant for distributions moving away from the in-kernel virtual terminal. Version 10.1 also includes unspecified bug fixes and minor enhancements.

What changes in KMSCON 10.1

• Per-monitor configuration: The mode setting in the KMSCON configuration file can now be specified multiple times, allowing independent display parameters per monitor.
• Display parameter control: Users can override native panel modes by setting individual resolution, refresh rate, and rotation values for each output.
• Preferred output selection: The release enables designating a preferred output among multiple connected displays, addressing a previously unsupported workflow.
• Configuration file syntax: Multiple mode entries in the existing configuration format provide the new functionality without requiring a separate configuration mechanism.
• Bug fixes and minor enhancements: The release includes additional unspecified stability improvements beyond the headline display configuration feature.

Why it matters

As Fedora 45, GNOME OS, and KDE Linux have adopted KMSCON as their default terminal emulator, this release directly affects a growing segment of Linux users who need flexible multi-monitor workstation and laptop setups. The per-output configuration capability removes a significant friction point for users migrating from the in-kernel VT, potentially accelerating KMSCON adoption among additional distributions evaluating VT alternatives.