Libinput to Introduce Lua Plugin System for Enhanced Linux Input Handling

 

Libinput’s new Lua plugin system lets Linux users customize input handling for Logitech MX Master 3S, gaming mice, and more. Learn how this secure, scriptable solution fixes hardware quirks—coming in libinput 1.29.

Linux’s libinput library, the backbone of input processing for X11 and Wayland, is set to revolutionize device customization with a new Lua-based plugin system. This update will empower users to modify evdev input events, fix hardware quirks, and optimize performance for premium peripherals like the Logitech MX Master 3S.

Why Lua? Security & Flexibility for Input Customization

After evaluating Rust-based WASM, developers chose Lua for its:

• Sandboxed execution (critical for secure input handling)

• Lightweight scripting (easy integration with kernel-level events)

• Broad adoption (familiar to sysadmins and power users)

"The goal is to let users fix unfixable issues—like inverted scroll wheels or worn-out mouse buttons—without breaking other devices." — Peter Hutter, Red Hat

Key Use Cases: Fixing Hardware Quirks & Premium Peripherals

The plugin system acts as a middleware layer between the kernel and libinput, enabling:

• Button remapping (e.g., swapping left/right mouse buttons via Lua scripts)

• Custom pointer acceleration (for gaming or CAD workflows)

• Bolt receiver fixes (addressing Logitech MX Master 3S compatibility)

Example: Lua Script for Mouse Button Swapping

lua

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function modify_event(event)  
    if event.code == BTN_LEFT then event.code = BTN_RIGHT  
    elseif event.code == BTN_RIGHT then event.code = BTN_LEFT  
    end  
    return event  
end  

Tiny FAQ

Q: Will Lua plugins slow down input processing?

A: No—Lua’s lightweight design ensures minimal overhead, and scripts run in a sandboxed environment.

Q: Can I use this to fix my Logitech MX Master’s scroll wheel?

A: Yes! The plugin system allows custom fixes for issues like inverted scrolling on Bolt receivers.

Q: Is this secure?

A: Absolutely. Lua scripts are sandboxed, preventing system-wide access or malicious input manipulation.

Q: When will this be available?

A: Expected in libinput 1.29, with stable distro updates following shortly after.

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Conclusion

Libinput’s Lua plugin system marks a major leap forward for Linux input customization, offering users unprecedented control over their peripherals. 

Whether you’re troubleshooting a Logitech MX Master, optimizing for gaming performance, or fine-tuning productivity workflows, this update delivers a secure, flexible solution—without waiting for kernel patches.

For sysadmins, gamers, and power users, this means fewer compromises and more precision. Keep an eye out for libinput 1.29, and start scripting your ideal input setup!