Niri 25.11: Rust-Based Wayland compositor Gains native Alt-Tab and Enhanced Features
Table of Contents
niri, a scrollable-tiling wayland compositor written in Rust, has released version 25.11, bringing a significant user experience upgrade with the introduction of a native Alt-Tab window switcher. This release also includes numerous improvements to functionality and usability, solidifying Niri as a compelling option for users seeking a modern and efficient desktop environment.
What is niri?
Niri is a Wayland compositor designed for efficiency and customization. Unlike traditional window managers, compositors handle the drawing and rendering of windows, offering more control over the visual experience. Wayland is a display server protocol aiming to replace the older X11 protocol, offering improved security, performance, and modern features. Niri’s foundation in Rust, a systems programming language known for its safety and performance, contributes to its stability and speed. https://github.com/yalter/niri
Key Features of Niri 25.11
The latest release focuses on refining the user experience and expanding Niri’s capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable changes:
* native Alt-Tab Window Switcher: Perhaps the most significant addition, Niri 25.11 introduces its own Alt-Tab window switcher. This switcher features live window previews, enhancing usability and making it easier to navigate between open applications. https://www.phoronix.com/image.php?id=2025&image=niri_alt_tab
* Improved Animations: New un/fullscreen animations provide a smoother and more visually appealing transition between application states.
* Wayland Maximize Handling: the release implements true Wayland maximize handling,ensuring applications maximize correctly within the Wayland environment.
* Layout Configuration: Users now have per-output and per-workspace layout configuration support, allowing for greater customization of their desktop arrangement.
* DisplayLink Support: Niri 25.11 adds support for DisplayLink dock devices, expanding compatibility with a wider range of hardware. DisplayLink technology enables video output via USB, often used with docking stations.
* Reduced Screen Blanking: Improvements have been made to reduce unwanted screen blanking, enhancing usability in various scenarios.
* Custom Output Modes: The ability to define custom output modes provides greater control over display settings.
* Screen Reader Compatibility: Better screen reader handling improves accessibility for visually impaired users.
Downloading and Installation
Niri 25.11 is available for download on GitHub: https://github.com/YaLTeR/niri/releases/tag/v25.11. Installation instructions will vary depending on your Linux distribution. Refer to the project’s documentation on GitHub for detailed guidance.
Conclusion
niri 25.11 represents a considerable step forward for this promising Wayland compositor. The addition of a native Alt-Tab switcher, coupled with a host of other improvements, makes Niri an increasingly attractive option for linux users seeking a modern, customizable, and efficient desktop experience. Its continued growth, driven by a single developer, highlights the power of open-source contributions.