Overview
The video provides guidance on advanced customization options for KDE Plasma 6, focusing on achieving transparent windows, alternative panels, and utilizing themes, widgets, and third-party tools. It also covers built-in desktop features and advises on safe theme installation practices.
Customization Basics in KDE Plasma 6
- KDE Plasma 6 allows significant customization of the desktop layout, including panels, start menu, and themes.
- Editing panel elements, moving panels, and adding new panels are accessible via edit mode.
- Users can mimic other OS layouts like Windows 11 or macOS, or create unique setups.
Start Menu and Widgets
- Right-clicking the start menu offers alternative menu layouts for greater customization.
- Additional widgets and start menu options are available via the Discover software center under Plasma Add-ons.
- Caution is advised as some widgets can execute code; review unfamiliar widgets before installing them.
Themes and Transparency Features
- Global themes have drawn criticism as they can execute code; installing individual components is recommended for security.
- Many themes advertise frosted glass or transparent effects, but not all provide true transparency after installation.
- Theme transparency for context menus can be managed through application style settings, but options vary by theme.
Using Kvantum for Advanced Theming
- Kvantum engine is a recommended tool for more advanced options like background blur and custom transparency.
- Download and extract the desired Kvantum theme, then install it using the Kvantum Manager.
- Choose the installed Kvantum theme from system settings to apply it to applications.
- Distribution-specific differences exist; Fedora offers direct Kvantum (Qt6) packages, while others may require manual installation.
Alternative Methods for Window Transparency
- The "lightly" tool is an alternative but is unmaintained and may not work on all systems.
- KWin Effects Force Blur is a new option, mainly requiring manual installation except on Arch-based distributions.
- Disable built-in Plasma blur before enabling alternative blur solutions for best results.
Additional Customization Tools and Notes
- Lattedock, popular on Plasma 5, is not compatible with Plasma 6.
- Panel Colorizer can slightly enhance the default panel but is not widely compatible and alters default settings.
- Built-in features like dynamic lock screen wallpapers, magnifier, hot corners, and custom task switchers are available without external tools.
Recommendations / Advice
- Review widgets and themes before installation for safety, as some may execute code.
- Use distribution-specific methods for installing tools like Kvantum or blur effects.
- Transparency is optional; using the right theme and color combinations can still produce appealing results.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Consider seeking distribution-specific troubleshooting or guidance if a tool is unavailable or unresponsive.