The CachyOS distribution, based on Arch Linux and known for its performance-focused approach, has released its first update of the year, featuring significant improvements to the kernel, hardware compatibility, and system optimizations.
Propeller Optimization and Performance Enhancements
One of the most notable changes in this release is the implementation of Propeller optimization in the Linux 6.13 kernel. This technology, combined with AutoFDO, delivers an approximate 10% performance boost, improving both latency and overall efficiency. With the recent integration of LLVM 19, this optimization has now been applied to the linux-cachyos kernel across all supported architectures.
NVIDIA Blackwell GPU Support
The February 2025 update includes the NVIDIA 570 beta driver, adding initial support for the GeForce RTX 50 “Blackwell” series GPUs. Since Blackwell only supports NVIDIA’s open module driver, CachyOS has adjusted its system accordingly. As a result, GPUs older than the Turing (RTX 20) series must use the first boot option in the ISO.
Other Improvements and Fixes
- Tap-to-click enabled by default in X11, addressing a highly requested feature.
- NTFS3 set as the default driver for NTFS partitions, offering improved file system performance.
- Kernel manager enhancements, now supporting the server mode of sched-ext.
- Fixes for AMD Preferred Core, ensuring that the AMD 3D cache driver works properly and registers changes in real-time.
- Resolved an issue with DaVinci Resolve, which previously failed to work with CUDA when the intel-opencl-runtime was installed.
- glibc update to mitigate CVE-2025-0395, strengthening system security.
Availability and Downloads
Existing users can update their systems using the command:
sudo pacman -SyuFor new installations, ISO images are available from multiple sources:
- Desktop Edition: Download here
- Handheld Edition: Download here
With this update, CachyOS continues to deliver a highly optimized Linux experience, ready for the latest hardware technologies.
