The Arch Linux installation tool just got a significant update that will excite fans of System76’s ambitious desktop environment project. Archinstall 3.0.15 has been released, and its headline feature is official support for the COSMIC desktop environment.
What’s New in Archinstall 3.0.15
For those unfamiliar, Archinstall is the official guided installer for Arch Linux, designed to simplify what has traditionally been a manual and complex installation process. With version 3.0.15, users can now select COSMIC as their desktop environment during the installation process, joining the ranks of other popular options like GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Xfce.
About COSMIC Desktop
COSMIC (Computer Operating System Main Interface Components) is System76’s Rust-based desktop environment, built from the ground up as a modern alternative to traditional Linux desktops. Originally announced in 2021, COSMIC represents a significant departure from the company’s previous Pop!_OS desktop, which was based on GNOME.
The desktop environment has been in active development and recently entered alpha testing. It promises improved performance, better customization options, and a more cohesive user experience—all written in Rust for memory safety and reliability.
Why This Matters
The addition of COSMIC to Archinstall is significant for several reasons:
Easier Access: Arch Linux users who want to try COSMIC no longer need to manually configure and install it. The Archinstall wizard handles the heavy lifting, making it accessible to users who might not be comfortable with extensive command-line configuration.
Wider Testing: By making COSMIC available through Archinstall, more users in the Arch community can easily test and provide feedback on the desktop environment, potentially accelerating its development and refinement.
Validation: Inclusion in the official Arch installer signals that COSMIC has reached a level of maturity and stability worth highlighting to the broader Linux community.
Getting Started
Users interested in trying COSMIC through Archinstall 3.0.15 can boot from the latest Arch Linux installation media and select COSMIC when prompted to choose a desktop environment during the installation process.
Keep in mind that COSMIC is still in alpha, so expect some rough edges and potential bugs. However, for those eager to experience the future of Rust-based desktop environments, this integration makes it easier than ever to take COSMIC for a test drive on Arch Linux.
The release of Archinstall 3.0.15 continues Arch Linux’s tradition of providing users with cutting-edge software while maintaining the flexibility and control the distribution is known for.
Archinstall 3.0.15 is expected to be included in the upcoming January Arch 2026.01.01 installation ISO, scheduled to arrive tomorrow, January 1st. However, if you’re using an older ISO, you can easily update Archinstall (before launching it) to its latest version by running pacman -S archinstall after the ISO boots.
