Raspberry Pi OS Update and New Raspberry Pi Imager

The Raspberry Pi developers have released new versions of the Raspberry Pi OS operating system and the Raspberry Pi Imager. While the operating system only receives minor version updates, the Imager even jumps a version.

In a blog post, author Tom Dewey explains that Raspberry Pi Imager 2.0 particularly brings a new user interface. It can also pre-configure Raspberry Pi Connect – a remote access solution for access to the Pi desktop via web browser – and offers better accessibility for screen readers and other assistive technologies.

In direct comparison, Raspberry Pi Imager 2.0, which is available as a download for Linux (x86_64), macOS, and Windows, appears significantly clearer. The entire installation process can be overviewed using navigation displayed on the left side. "Each step gets its window with space for helpful descriptions and relevant links," Dewey elaborates. Accessibility is no longer coincidental but is considered in the design. The entire app can be controlled using the keyboard without a mouse. The color scheme is intended to improve readability, and the larger spacing of the user interface elements and the space allow for easier operation.

Updated Raspberry Pi OS

After Raspberry Pi OS switched to the Debian Trixie base in early October, the project has released the interim version 2025-11-24. However, this is only subtle version maintenance – the release notes for Raspberry Pi OS mention, for example, the update to kernel 6.12.47, newer Raspberry Pi firmware, and updates to the web browsers to Chromium 142.0.7444.164 and Firefox to 145.0.

Also included is the slim Wayland compositor labwc at version 0.9.4. Some minor improvements include Qt6 apps now supporting theme application, or corrected font selection for Qt5 apps. Screen control has received a setting for HiDPI scaling, and the panel, file manager, and numerous other apps now come with HiDPI icons on the system. Pulseaudio, on the other hand, has been removed from the image by the developers.

Interested parties can find the updated Raspberry Pi OS images on their dedicated download page. However, they can also be easily downloaded automatically with the new Raspberry Pi Imager 2.0 and transferred to an SD card, for example. Existing Debian Trixie-based Raspberry Pi OS installations can be updated by entering sudo apt update and then sudo apt full-upgrade in the terminal.

(dmk)