OpenMandriva published ROME 26.09 on October 1, 2026, with refreshed installation images for its rolling-release distribution. The project lists Linux kernel 7.2.7 and KDE Plasma 6.7.5, plus updated desktop environments, developer tools, libraries and gaming software. Existing ROME users had already received rolling updates; this release primarily provides newly tested installation images.
What’s new in OpenMandriva ROME 26.09?
ROME is OpenMandriva’s rolling-release edition. The 26.09 announcement marks refreshed ISO images, rather than a point-in-time package upgrade that existing rolling users must install separately. OpenMandriva describes ROME as intended for individual users who want current software and notes that users should be comfortable using the command line at times. Its ROME page describes the Plasma Extended variant as a complete desktop for most non-technical users.
Key versions in the release
| Component | Version or update stated by OpenMandriva |
|---|---|
| Linux kernel | 7.2.7; kernel-rc 7.3.0-rc4 is also available |
| KDE desktop | Plasma 6.7.5, KDE Gear 26.08.1, KDE Frameworks 6.29.0 |
| Compilers and packages | LLVM/Clang 23.1.2, GCC 16.2.0, RPM 6.1.0 |
| Frameworks and graphics | Qt 6.11.2 and 5.15.19; GTK 4.22.5 and 3.24.52; Mesa 26.2.3 |
| Core system and media | PipeWire 1.6.9, glibc 2.44, GRUB 2.16 |
| Browser | Firefox 156.0 |
| Other desktops | GNOME 50.3, LXQt 2.4.0; Xfce components updated to current stable versions, with Xfce 4.20.x; MATE 1.28 bug-fix updates and an experimental Wayland session |
| Gaming | Steam installer 1.0.0.86 from the non-free repository, Proton 11.0+20260808, DXVK 3.0.2, vkd3d 2.0, WINE 11.18 with WoW64 support |
| AI and compute | ROCm 10.0.0 and applications including llama.cpp, Ollama, whisper.cpp, KoboldCpp and ComfyUI |
These are versions reported in the project’s October 1, 2026 announcement, not independent performance or compatibility test results.
Performance claim: treat 20% as potential
OpenMandriva says that “Choosing the appropriate implementation can provide performance improvements of up to 20%.” The announcement describes this as potential from infrastructure for interchangeable malloc implementations; it says future releases are expected to add configurations that select implementations for certain applications. It is not a measured 20% gain across all programs, computers or ROME installations.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
- [INTEL POWERED CONTENT] - Built with a 8th Generation Hexa-Core Intel i5 and 32GB of DDR4 RAM; Modern, Windows 11 ready, with 4K support, Executive multitasking, media streaming and smooth, multi-tab web browsing; Perfect as an all-purpose multimedia computer; built for content creators; Plenty of RAM and Mass storage for photo and video editing powered by Intel HD 630
- [LATEST WIRELESS TECH] - This Dell Desktop Computer easily connects to the internet through the Built In WiFi / Bluetooth
- [SOLID STATE STORAGE] - This Dell Computer setup comes with an ultra-fast 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD); Setup as the primary boot device; Boot and load programs with lightning speed ; Additional expansion available
- [BUY & OWN WITH CONFIDENCE] - From the world's largest Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher; Quality Guarantee and Free Tech Support; Award-winning Customer Service; | Support Sustainable Business
- [MODERN HI-SPEED PORTS] - USB 3.0 (x4) | USB 2.0 (x4) | DisplayPort (x1) | HDMI Port (x1) | Audio Combo Jack (x1) | Audio Out (x1) | RJ-45 Ethernet (x1) | Internal SATA (x3)
Which ROME 26.09 image should you choose?
Choose by processor architecture first, then desktop and session. OpenMandriva lists Plasma X11, Plasma Wayland and LXQt images for x86_64, with specially optimized znver builds for AMD Ryzen processors. A GNOME Wayland image is also named in the announcement. Community-maintained LXQt, MATE and Xfce spins are available separately.
| Hardware or preference | Image choice and qualification |
|---|---|
| Most x86_64 PCs | General x86_64 image; select a listed Plasma session or LXQt desktop to suit your preference |
| AMD Ryzen system | Consider the specially optimized znver build; verify its current name and compatibility on the download page |
| ARM 64-bit (aarch64) | The project says it currently provides only a server image |
| GNOME desktop | The announcement names a GNOME Wayland image |
| VirtualBox guest using Wayland LiveISO | A black screen may occur; the project says selecting the VMSVGA graphics controller may let boot complete |
The official ROME page lists 3.2 GiB for its Plasma 6 X11 and Wayland x86_64 and znver1 images, but warns that image names change as snapshots are published. Check the current ISO’s filename and size before preparing installation media; the release announcement does not establish a minimum USB capacity.
Rank #2
- 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 Processor – The GMKtec G3 S Mini PC is powered by the 12th Gen Intel N95 processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache and a burst frequency up to 3.4GHz. Compared with N100/N5105/N5100/N5095, the N95 delivers up to 36% overall performance improvement. Perfect for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment, this compact mini desktop is more convenient than traditional bulky PCs.
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD Storage – Pre-installed with 8GB DDR4 memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2242 SSD, the G3 S mini desktop offers quicker startup, smoother multitasking, and faster file transfers. Enjoy seamless performance whether you’re working on multiple applications, browsing, or streaming content.
- Rich Interfaces & Connectivity – The G3 S mini computer comes equipped with USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), and a 3.5mm audio jack. With support for WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 1000MbE), it connects easily with monitors, projectors, printers, office equipment, and other peripherals, making it versatile for both home and business use.
- Dual 4K Display Support – Featuring upgraded Intel UHD Graphics (up to 1000MHz), the G3 S supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding for a smooth viewing experience. With dual HDMI outputs, you can connect two 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking for work and entertainment.
- GMKtec WARRANTY - GMKtec offers a 1-year limited GMKtec's warranty for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase. All defects due to design and workmanship are covered. With a professional after sales team always ready to attend to your needs, you can simply relax and enjoy your mini PC.
How do you download and install ROME 26.09?
- Choose the image: Visit the OpenMandriva ROME release directory or a project mirror. Select the desktop, session and architecture that match your system.
- Check the current file and checksum: Confirm that the image is the intended current snapshot. The project says SHA256 sums are available from mirrors; verify the downloaded file against the corresponding published sum.
- Create bootable media: Write the ISO to suitable installation media using your preferred imaging utility. No particular USB model or minimum capacity is specified by the release announcement, so check the selected ISO’s actual size.
- Boot and install: Start the computer from the prepared media and follow the installer. If using a VirtualBox Wayland live session, consult the VMSVGA workaround above if the screen remains black.
Known issues to check before installing
- NVIDIA and Plasma X11: The project’s known-issues list says OM-Welcome may crash on some NVIDIA configurations, particularly with the open-source driver, under Plasma X11.
- Older NVIDIA GPUs: The open NVIDIA kernel module included in the kernel does not support older GPUs such as Volta or Turing (10-series), according to the announcement. The proprietary NVIDIA driver is listed as updated to 610.57.04.
- Cosmic image: A Cosmic installation image was not released alongside ROME 26.09 because of a login-manager problem. The project says existing Cosmic installations can be updated and remain working.
These are project-reported conditions, not a complete hardware compatibility list. Check current release information and errata if your setup depends on NVIDIA hardware, VirtualBox, or Cosmic.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Snap support and package choices
OpenMandriva says ROME 26.09 adds Snap support while expressing a preference for native packages and noting support for Flatpak and AppImage. To install and enable snapd using the commands in the announcement:
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Model: Dell OptiPlex 7050 Small Form Factor (SFF)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-7700 3.60 GHz
- Memory: 32GB DDR4 Ram
- Storage: 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD) Fast Boot + Storage
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro (64-bit)
Rank #3
- Live Boot: Simply plug the USB drive into your computer, select the USB drive as your boot device, and experience Linux Mint without installation. This allows you to test the OS and its features before making any changes to your system.
- Install Option: Once you've tested and decided to keep Linux Mint, you can easily install it on your computer directly from the USB drive.
- Pre-installed software like LibreOffice for office tasks, a capable web browser (Firefox), email client (Thunderbird), and multimedia tools. This minimizes the need for additional downloads, saving you time and effort.
- Resource Efficiency: Designed to run efficiently on a variety of hardware configurations. It demands fewer system resources compared to some other operating systems, making it an excellent choice for older computers or devices with limited hardware specifications.
- Compatible with PC/Laptop/Desktop brands - Dell, HP, Sony, Lenovo, Samsung, Acer, Toshiba & more. Minimum system requirements 4 GB RAM Dual-Core Processor (2 GHz) 20 GB of free disk space
- Run
sudo dnf install snapd. - Run
sudo systemctl enable --now snapd. - Reboot if convenient; the project recommends a reboot but says it is not strictly necessary.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
