CachyOS 241221 launches with performance improvements, Bluetooth support enabled by default, and more

CachyOS 241221 is this year's 13th and last update of the performance-focused, Arch Linux-based distro, which is built using a BORE (Burst-Oriented Response Enhancer) scheduler alongside desktop packages that feature LTO, x86-64-v3, x86-64-v4, and Zen 4 optimizations. Further refining the overall performance of this rather special piece of code, this refresh also comes with the Bluetooth service enabled by default.

This update's list of highlights also includes the following:

• Native schedule switching thanks to sxc_loader support.
• Internet connection check has been fixed in the installer, which also no longer spawns a logs terminal window.
• The Mesa stack now sports RustiCL instead of OpenCL, thus providing improved performance and compatibility.
• Updated packages: Nvidia 565.77, linux-cachyos 6.12.6, mesa 24.3.2, scx-scheds 1.0.8, and zfs 2.2.7.
• Handheld-related packages were also updated, alongside WiFi 6 support for this flavor.

Same as before, the downloads for the desktop and handheld editions can be initiated from this page. The ISO for handhelds has 2.8 GB, while its sibling for desktop PCs is slightly smaller at 2.7 GB.

Those who want to get started with Arch Linux and the distros based on it might want to check out Shiv Kumar Goyal's a Practical Guide to Arch Linux, which is free to grab with Kindle Unlimited or $9.99 to buy. The paperback edition is priced at $41, while the hardcover can be acquired for no less than $61.