Bazzite, the Fedora-based Linux distribution optimized for gaming and desktop use, released version 43.20260309 on 2026-03-09. This update brings major component upgrades including Linux kernel 6.17.7-ba28, updated firmware dated 2026-02-21, and desktop environment improvements with GNOME 49.5 and KDE Plasma 6.6.2.
The most significant change affects Nvidia users, as the distribution now ships with driver version 595.45.04, a substantial jump from the previous 590.48.01 release. This newer driver enabled the removal of the vk_hdr_layer workaround that was previously required for HDR functionality on Nvidia hardware. The long-term support Nvidia driver remains at version 580.95.05 for users preferring stability over cutting-edge features.
Other notable updates include Lutris 0.5.22 for game management, Podman 5.8.0 for containerized applications, and Sunshine streaming software version 2026.309.21603. The release also includes various bug fixes, such as ensuring the iio-sensor-proxy package is present on all images for proper sensor support, corrections to systemd service configurations, and improvements to the live ISO installation process. Users can rebase to this version using the bazzite-rollback-helper tool.
