Debian 13 "Trixie" RC1 Installer Released: Key Upgrades & What’s New

Debian 13 'Trixie' RC1 Installer is here with Linux 6.12.27 LTS, ARM optimizations, Btrfs rescue support, and new device compatibility. Learn how this update benefits sysadmins, developers, and enterprise users.

The Debian Project has unveiled the RC1 (Release Candidate 1) version of its installer for Debian 13 "Trixie", marking a major milestone ahead of the stable release this summer.

This update introduces critical optimizations, firmware adjustments, and expanded hardware support, making it essential for Linux enthusiasts, sysadmins, and enterprise users.

Debian Installer Trixie RC1: Major Changes & Enhancements

1. Optimized Firmware & ARM Hard-Float Builds

• ARM hard-float builds will no longer include large graphics firmware packages on Debian CDs.

• Reduced firmware bloat: Some packages are excluded if they rely on non-free components or are incompatible with the current Debian kernel configuration.

2. Increased SD Card Image Sizes

• Netbook images now require 300MB (standard) and 400MB (GTK variant), accommodating modern installation demands.

3. Linux 6.12.27 LTS Kernel Integration

• Enhanced stability & security with the latest Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel, ensuring better hardware compatibility.

4. New Ceratopsian Theme for Debian 13

• A fresh visual identity aligns with Debian’s modernized branding, improving user experience.

5. QEMU/KVM Desktop Installations Now Include spice-vdagent

• Better virtual machine performance with spice-vdagent for seamless clipboard sharing & dynamic resolution scaling.

6. PPC64EL Reverts to ext2 for /boot (Petitboot Compatibility)

• Ext4 is replaced with ext2 on PPC64EL due to Petitboot limitations, ensuring smoother boot processes.

7. Preliminary Btrfs Sub-Volume Rescue Support

• Advanced recovery options for installations on Btrfs sub-volumes, appealing to enterprise and power users.

8. Expanded Flash-Kernel Device Support

• Newly supported devices include:

• PINE64 Pinebook

• MNT Reform 2

• ARM64X HummingBoard-T

• Snapdragon X Elite

• Wandboard Rev D1

• PINE64 Star64

Why This Matters for Linux Users & Enterprises

The Debian Installer Trixie RC1 brings performance optimizations, broader hardware support, and improved security, making it a top choice for IT professionals and developers.

🔍 Looking for stability? The LTS kernel (6.12.27) ensures long-term reliability.

💡 Running ARM-based systems? Firmware optimizations reduce unnecessary bloat.

🖥️ Using QEMU/KVM? spice-vdagent enhances VM usability.

How to Test & Get Involved

For detailed changelogs and testing instructions, follow updates on debian-devel-announce.