Raspberry Pi Desktop relaunches for x86-64 PCs and Intel Macs
Raspberry Pi Desktop, a Debian-based Linux distribution carrying the familiar Raspberry Pi OS interface, is now available again for conventional PCs and Intel-based Macs after a four-year absence. It can be booted from a USB drive without altering an existing installation, or installed directly onto a computer's internal storage, and is offered free of charge.
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Reviving the x86-64 build gives owners of older Windows PCs and Intel Macs a lightweight alternative operating system without needing Raspberry Pi hardware, which could extend the useful life of aging machines. Its free, Debian-based design and classroom-friendly interface suggest it may appeal particularly to schools and budget-conscious users seeking a consistent desktop experience across devices.
- Raspberry Pi Desktop now runs on x86-64 PCs and Intel-based Macs, not just Raspberry Pi boards.
- It can run live from USB without modifying the host system, or be installed permanently.
- Apple Silicon Macs are not supported; only Intel-based Macs and 64-bit Intel/AMD PCs work.
SanDisk Extreme USB 3.2 Flash Drive — A fast, reliable USB drive is perfect for running Raspberry Pi Desktop live without touching your PC's internal storage. Its high read/write speeds make the live-boot experience much snappier than a bargain-bin USB stick, and you can carry your whole desktop setup in your pocket.
See SanDisk Extreme USB 3.2 Flash Drive on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: techspot.com, 2026-10-08
Published there as: “Raspberry Pi Desktop returns to PCs and Macs after four years”
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