A new desktop environment called MiDesktop is drawing attention as a modern fork of the original KDE 1, which was first released in 1998. This project aims to provide users with a nostalgic experience reminiscent of the early days of Linux. While it offers a glimpse into the past, MiDesktop is still in an experimental phase and presents several challenges for users.
Getting MiDesktop set up can be a complex process. Initially, users must visit the MiDesktop website to follow installation instructions. However, the environment requires either Ubuntu or Debian, which posed a challenge for one user who preferred Fedora. After several attempts, they opted to try both Ubuntu and Debian, only to encounter unique issues with each operating system.
With Ubuntu, the user faced repeated log-in troubles. The first attempt booted them back to the login screen, while a second attempt allowed access, but only under strict conditions. Any interaction with the desktop environment could result in being logged out again. On the other hand, the Debian installation allowed for a successful log-in but featured a significant problem: essential graphical user interface (GUI) elements were missing, leaving the user in a limited KDE 1 environment.
MiDesktop currently exists in a barebones state. Users will find that essential features, such as help menus, are not yet implemented, leading to error messages when attempted. Additionally, the desktop environment lacks a comprehensive setup tutorial, making it unsuitable for everyday use. Popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox struggle within this retro environment, often displaying issues like restricted window sizes or erratic expansion.
Despite these setbacks, users can appreciate the nostalgic elements of MiDesktop. The interface features classic design choices, including desktop labels such as “one” through “four” and a peculiar application manager that requires clicking and holding the mouse button to navigate. This design approach may remind users of systems like Windows 95, with solid color backgrounds and retro icons.
While MiDesktop may not yet be ready for mainstream adoption, the fact that it exists is noteworthy. The developer’s efforts to create a modern interpretation of a classic Linux desktop environment are commendable. As it continues to evolve, many anticipate its potential. When a stable release becomes available, the user who encountered these initial challenges expressed interest in adopting it as a daily driver on their laptop.
The journey through MiDesktop offers valuable insights into the evolution of desktop environments and the ongoing passion within the open-source community to preserve the history of computing while pushing forward into the future.
