Linux Simply Hit a Huge Milestone within the Desktop OS Race

Open-source working system Linux could have lagged behind its better-known rivals like macOS and Home windows for many years—but it surely seems like it could lastly be getting its day within the solar.

In line with Statcounter’s June 2025 stats, noticed by TechSpot, Linux now has a 5.38% share of the US desktop working system market, its highest-ever outcome. However although Linux is holding a much bigger slice of the pie than ever earlier than, OSes from tech giants like Apple and Microsoft nonetheless management the overwhelming majority of the market.

Home windows maintains a transparent lead with 63.2%, whereas Apple controls 24%, break up between OS X at 16.57% and macOS at 7.72%. However this is likely to be a narrative of Home windows’ current dip as a lot as Linux’s rise. In line with Statcounter’s figures, it is misplaced 5.1% of its market share since December.

TechSpot posited just a few explanations for Linux’s current rise, noting points like dissatisfaction with the Home windows ecosystem. Home windows 11 had a lot slower uptake amongst customers than its predecessor, with points like excessive efficiency necessities on account of the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) safety function coming into play (which Microsoft insisted was vital for safety). Home windows 11 Copilot+ has additionally been hit with controversies and regulatory scrutiny over alleged privateness considerations, attracting the attention of UK regulators. Home windows 11 solely overtook Home windows 10 this month.

However Linux has additionally scored some vital wins, with Denmark’s authorities shifting to undertake it for a few of its IT techniques, citing pragmatic points like cost-cutting in addition to “digital sovereignty.” It is also in use by some high-profile client tech, like the hand held Steam Deck.

For those who’re a lifelong Mac or Home windows consumer and also you’re just a little bit intimidated concerning the prospect of making an attempt Linux, take a look at PCMag’s information to creating the bounce.

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About Will McCurdy

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I’m a reporter protecting weekend information. Earlier than becoming a member of PCMag in 2024, I picked up bylines in BBC Information, The Guardian, The Instances of London, The Day by day Beast, Vice, Slate, Quick Firm, The Night Customary, The i, TechRadar, and Decrypt Media.

I’ve been a PC gamer because you needed to set up video games from a number of CD-ROMs by hand. As a reporter, I’m passionate concerning the intersection of tech and human lives. I’ve lined all the things from crypto scandals to the artwork world, in addition to conspiracy theories, UK politics, and Russia and international affairs.

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