Endless OS 6

Basic Information

• Model: Endless OS 6
• Version: 6.0.0 (initial release), with subsequent point releases up to 6.0.7.
• Release Date: May 14, 2024, for the initial 6.0.0 release.
• Minimum Requirements: 64-bit CPU, 2GB RAM, 32GB disk space.
• Supported Operating Systems: Endless OS 6 is an operating system designed to run on 64-bit Intel or AMD (x64/x86_64) processors. It offers experimental support for some ARM64-based platforms, such as Raspberry Pi 4.
• Latest Stable Version: As of November 2025, the latest stable point release is Endless OS 6.0.7.
• End of Support Date: Endless OS does not currently offer a Long-Term Support (LTS) release for general users, encouraging continuous updates for the latest features, fixes, and improvements. Endless OS 4 LTS support ended on February 29, 2024.
• End of Life Date: No fixed End of Life (EOL) date is provided for non-LTS releases, as the model promotes continuous updates.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly stated, but automatic updates are enabled by default for new installations and upgrades.
• License Type: Open Source, with its image builder tool licensed under GNU GPL v2.
• Deployment Model: Primarily direct installation via downloadable ISO images, a Windows installer, or virtual machine images. It supports custom image building for advanced users and is designed for mass deployment in educational and digital inclusion settings.

Technical Requirements

• RAM: A minimum of 2GB is required, with 4GB recommended for light usage and 8GB for multitasking.
• Processor: Requires a 64-bit Intel or AMD processor (x64/x86_64). 32-bit processors are not supported. Experimental support is available for ARM64 platforms like the Raspberry Pi 4.
• Storage: A minimum of 32GB of disk space is recommended for the basic installation and applications. The Full version, preloaded with extensive content, may require 64GB or more. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are recommended for optimal performance.
• Display: Utilizes the GNOME 43.9 desktop environment, defaulting to Wayland for its display server, supporting modern display technologies.
• Ports: Supports standard USB for peripherals. Internally connected webcams using Intel IPU6 MIPI technology are not supported, but most USB webcams are.
• Operating System: Endless OS 6 is a Linux-based operating system built on Debian 12.5 "Bookworm," powered by the Linux kernel 6.5, and features a customized GNOME 43.9 desktop environment.

Analysis of Technical Requirements: Endless OS 6 maintains modest technical requirements, enabling it to run efficiently on a wide range of hardware, including older machines. The shift to a 64-bit architecture ensures compatibility with modern processors, while the recommendation for increased RAM for multitasking reflects the demands of contemporary computing. The emphasis on SSDs for performance highlights a practical approach to optimizing user experience on varied hardware. The specific mention of unsupported webcam technology indicates areas where hardware compatibility may be limited, though standard USB peripherals are well-supported.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The latest stable point release is Endless OS 6.0.7.
• OS Support: Endless OS 6 supports a broad spectrum of 64-bit Intel and AMD hardware. It also includes experimental support for ARM64 devices. However, it discontinues support for certain configurations, such as Intel RST Optane storage, which means devices with this setup cannot upgrade from Endless OS 5.1 to Endless OS 6.
• End of Support Date: Endless OS does not follow a fixed Long-Term Support (LTS) model for its general releases, instead promoting continuous updates. Endless OS 4, which was an LTS release, reached its end of support on February 29, 2024.
• Localization: Primary content is authored and maintained in English, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese. The GNOME desktop environment, on which Endless OS is based, offers extensive translations into numerous languages, with all GNOME release translations shipped. Language settings can be adjusted on any installation. Flatpak applications have varying levels of language support.
• Available Drivers: Endless OS includes standard drivers from the Linux kernel. Proprietary NVIDIA drivers are automatically installed for NVIDIA GPUs. Intel Wireless cards are recommended for best compatibility, while Realtek cards may experience issues. MIPI webcams are not currently supported.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: Endless OS 6 demonstrates strong compatibility with mainstream 64-bit hardware, ensuring a broad user base can adopt it. The continuous update model ensures users receive ongoing support, security patches, and new features. While specific older hardware configurations are no longer supported, this allows for better optimization for newer technologies. The robust localization for the desktop environment and core content, coupled with varying support for Flatpak apps, makes it accessible to a global audience. The automatic installation of proprietary NVIDIA drivers enhances out-of-the-box experience for users with such hardware.

Security Status

• Security Features: Endless OS 6 is built on an immutable Debian 12 base with a read-only root filesystem managed by OSTree, which protects core system files from unauthorized or malicious modification. Applications are installed and run as Flatpaks within sandboxed environments, limiting their access to the rest of the system. By default, the OS only allows Flatpaks from trusted sources (Endless and GNOME). It also includes parental controls and web safety features for content filtering.
• Known Vulnerabilities: As it is based on Debian 12.5 "Bookworm" and Linux kernel 6.5, Endless OS 6 benefits from the continuous security updates and bug fixes provided by these upstream projects. Specific known vulnerabilities for Endless OS 6 are addressed through regular updates.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable for an operating system.
• Certifications: No specific security certifications are explicitly mentioned in publicly available information.
• Encryption Support: Encrypted storage is not supported when dual-booting Endless OS alongside Windows, particularly with Windows Professional editions that often use default encryption.
• Authentication Methods: Standard Linux-based authentication methods are used for user accounts.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to keep the operating system and all applications updated to ensure the latest security patches are applied. Vigilance is recommended when installing software from untrusted sources or executing technical procedures from unverified advice.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: Endless OS 6 offers a high level of security, primarily due to its immutable architecture and the use of Flatpak for application sandboxing. The read-only root filesystem significantly reduces the attack surface and protects against many types of malware. The reliance on trusted Flatpak sources further enhances security by mitigating the risk of installing malicious software. While specific certifications are not highlighted, the foundation on a robust Debian base and continuous updates contribute to a secure environment. The lack of encrypted storage support in dual-boot scenarios with Windows is a notable limitation for some users.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores for Endless OS 6 are not widely published.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Endless OS 6 performs well, with idle RAM usage reported around 1.3 GB. It is optimized for low-end systems and features improved low memory management, allowing for better multitasking on older or less powerful hardware.
• Power Consumption: While not explicitly detailed, the optimization for modest hardware and efficient resource management suggests a focus on lower power consumption, beneficial for laptops and less powerful devices.
• Carbon Footprint: No specific data on carbon footprint is available.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Endless OS 6 is characterized as a "toughened and much-simplified immutable Debian 12 with a friendly GNOME-based desktop," specifically targeting kids, education, and novice users. It is not positioned as a direct competitor to ChromeOS but as a general-purpose OS that excels in offline utility. Compared to distributions like Fedora Silverblue, Endless OS is described as more "batteries included," offering extensive preloaded content and applications, making it particularly suitable for users with limited or no internet access.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: Endless OS 6 delivers good performance, especially considering its target audience and hardware requirements. Its low idle RAM usage and improved memory management make it suitable for older or less powerful computers, enhancing the user experience on modest hardware. The focus on offline functionality and preloaded content distinguishes it from many other operating systems, making it a practical choice in environments with limited internet connectivity. While specific benchmark figures are absent, real-world observations indicate a responsive and efficient system.

User Reviews & Feedback

• Strengths: Users praise Endless OS 6 for its user-friendly and intuitive interface, making it ideal for novice users, children, and educational settings. Its robust offline capabilities, including preloaded educational tools, games, and an encyclopedia, are highly valued in areas with limited internet access. The OS is noted for its stability and ability to run effectively on older or low-specification hardware, breathing new life into such devices. Automatic updates are also considered a significant advantage.
• Weaknesses: Some advanced users find the system "confined and limited" due to its immutable nature and reliance on Flatpaks, which restricts traditional package management. The discontinuation of support for specific older hardware configurations, like Intel RST Optane storage, has been a point of concern for affected users. While the community forums exist, some feedback indicates they can be quiet, with questions occasionally going unanswered. The "Full" ISO version can be very large (up to 24GB), which can be a barrier for download and installation.
• Recommended Use Cases: Endless OS 6 is highly recommended for schools, educational institutions, and digital inclusion initiatives. It is particularly well-suited for first-time computer users, families, older individuals, and emigrants, especially in regions with unreliable or no internet connectivity. Its design caters to learning and productivity, making it an excellent choice for environments where access to digital resources is critical.

Summary

Endless OS Foundation Endless OS 6 is a robust, user-friendly, and secure Linux-based operating system, released on May 14, 2024. Built on Debian 12.5 with Linux kernel 6.5 and a customized GNOME 43.9 desktop, it targets educational environments, novice users, and regions with limited internet access.

Its primary strengths lie in its accessibility and offline capabilities. The OS operates efficiently on modest hardware, requiring a minimum of 2GB RAM and a 64-bit processor, making it suitable for repurposing older computers. The "Full" version comes preloaded with extensive educational content, games, and productivity software, ensuring functionality even without an internet connection. The intuitive interface and automatic updates contribute to a hassle-free user experience.

Security is a significant advantage, stemming from its immutable, read-only root filesystem (OSTree) and sandboxed Flatpak applications, which protect against malware and unauthorized system changes. While it lacks specific security certifications, its foundation on a stable Debian base and continuous updates provide a secure computing environment.

However, Endless OS 6 has some limitations. Its immutable nature can feel restrictive for advanced users accustomed to traditional Linux package management. Certain older hardware, like Intel RST Optane storage, is no longer supported for upgrades. The large size of the full installation image can also be a drawback for users with limited bandwidth.

Overall, Endless OS 6 is an excellent choice for its intended audience: individuals and organizations focused on education, digital literacy, and providing computing access in underserved areas. Its blend of simplicity, robust offline functionality, and strong security makes it a highly recommended solution for these specific use cases.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.