open-hardware

Raspberry Pi Desktop updated for PC and Mac with Debian Trixie

Key Takeaway

Raspberry Pi has released a new 64-bit version of its desktop environment for PC and Mac based on Debian Trixie.

Summary

Raspberry Pi has released an updated version of its Desktop software designed for standard PCs and Intel-based Macs. This new release is based on the 64-bit Debian Trixie distribution and includes the Raspberry Pi Connect client for remote access. It is available as a live ISO image that can be run from a USB stick or installed via the Calamares installer.

Technical changes in the new release

  • Transitioned from 32-bit to 64-bit (amd64) architecture to align with Debian's PC support.
  • Based on Debian Trixie.
  • Includes the Raspberry Pi Connect client for remote screen sharing and terminal access.
  • Supports persistent storage when running from a live USB.
  • Uses the Calamares installer for hard drive or SSD installations.
  • Does not support Apple Silicon (ARM-based Macs) as Debian support for that architecture remains experimental.

Why it matters

This allows users to repurpose older Intel-based hardware with the familiar Raspberry Pi user interface and remote management tools.

Original reference: www.raspberrypi.com →