It’s that time again — a new Debian Linux release means a new Raspberry Pi OS! Following the long-standing tradition, this year’s version is based on Debian 13 “Trixie”, named after the blue plastic triceratops from Toy Story 3. While the name may be whimsical, the updates it brings are powerful, practical, and built for the future.
What’s New in Raspberry Pi OS Trixie
Future-Proof Time System
The most significant backend change in Debian Trixie addresses the 2038 time overflow problem. Previously, Linux used a 32-bit system to track time, which would overflow in 2038. The new system uses a 64-bit timestamp, extending the limit to the year 292,277,026,596 — effectively solving this issue for hundreds of millennia.
While this change is invisible to users, it ensures that Raspberry Pi devices remain future-ready for decades to come.
New Desktop Theme and Interface
Raspberry Pi OS Trixie introduces a fresh, modern look for the desktop:
- New icon set and visual theme
- New system font: Nunito Sans Light, replacing Piboto
- Updated wallpapers by Greg Annandale, including the default — a beautiful sunrise over the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho
This redesign marks the first time the Raspberry Pi Foundation collaborated with an external designer, bringing a professional UI polish to the desktop experience.
Unified Control Centre
Trixie simplifies system configuration with a brand-new Control Centre app that consolidates all preference tools into one place. It replaces:
- Raspberry Pi Configuration
- Appearance Settings
- Mouse & Keyboard Settings
- Screen Configuration
- Printer Setup
Everything from password management to display tweaks is now organized into modular tabs within a single clean interface. The Control Centre also supports plugin extensions, meaning developers can add their own settings pages or hardware controls in the future.
Improved Bookshelf Experience
The Bookshelf app — your access point to free Raspberry Pi Press eBooks and magazines — has been updated with a new content model.
- Recent publications now display a padlock icon, unlocking automatically after a few months.
- Subscribers can access new titles early by logging into their account via the Contribute button.
This new approach supports the community while maintaining access to free educational content.
Modular Package System
With Trixie, Raspberry Pi OS introduces meta packages to simplify customization and image building.
This modular structure makes it easy to:
- Convert a Lite image into a full desktop setup (and vice versa)
- Add or remove packages like apps, utilities, or development tools with simple commands
For example:
rpd-wayland-core→ Base Wayland desktoprpd-x-core→ X11-based desktoprpd-theme→ Official Raspberry Pi themerpd-preferences→ Control Centre and pluginsrpd-applications→ Developer and utility software
This update improves flexibility for advanced users, developers, and system integrators creating custom Pi images.
Software and Hardware Notes
- Not yet supported: Raspberry Pi AI HAT+, AI Kit, TV HAT, and Wolfram Mathematica. Continue using the Bookworm image for these until updates arrive.
- Works with Raspberry Pi 5, 500, and 500+.
- You can flash Trixie using Raspberry Pi Imager or directly through the bootloader Imager by holding Shift during boot (Ethernet required).
How to Install Raspberry Pi OS Trixie
The Raspberry Pi Foundation recommends a clean installation rather than upgrading from Bookworm.
To install:
- Use Raspberry Pi Imager or download the image from the official downloads page.
- Flash the new image to your SD card.
- Boot up your Raspberry Pi and enjoy the refreshed experience!
A Modern OS with a Friendly Face
Raspberry Pi OS Trixie isn’t just about looks — it’s about long-term sustainability, system modularity, and smoother usability. With its refreshed desktop, enhanced control tools, and forward-looking core improvements, Trixie marks a significant milestone in Raspberry Pi’s software evolution.
🔗 Source: Raspberry Pi Blog – Trixie Release
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