The Linux 6.19 kernel is shaping up to be a significant release for hardware monitoring enthusiasts, with a fresh batch of HWMON subsystem updates landing that expand sensor support across a surprisingly diverse range of devices. The headline additions include a new macsmc_hwmon driver for Apple Silicon Macs, native Steam Deck APU temperature monitoring, and expanded support for ASUS motherboards.
The Apple Silicon SMC driver is particularly noteworthy for Asahi Linux users who have been waiting years for proper hardware monitoring on their M-series Macs. The new driver exposes current, power, temperature, and voltage sensors through the System Management Controller, along with fan speed monitoring and control. Since Apple's SMC firmware lacks standardization across devices, support levels vary between models, but it represents a meaningful step forward for those running Linux on modern Mac hardware.
Valve's portable gaming PC also gets some love in this release. The AMD k10temp driver now includes the Steam Deck APU device ID, enabling mainline kernel users to finally monitor their handheld's processor temperatures without relying on Valve's downstream patches. For desktop users, the ASUS EC Sensors driver adds support for several X870 series motherboards including the ROG STRIX X870-F GAMING WIFI and Pro WS TRX50-SAGE WIFI, while Intel's PECI driver gains Emerald Rapids compatibility.
Other new drivers shipping in this release include the TSC1641 I2C power monitor and several MPS and Maxim power management ICs. The full changelog is available in the kernel merge commit.