Lidslate is an (upcoming) Linux-based operating system totally made on mobile computers, made for mobile computers. The project's goal is to bring a simple, unique, friendly experience to laptops and notebooks, convertibles (2-in-1's), and tablets powered by 64-bit Intel (and AMD) processors. And to be something its author enjoys using!
It's a combo of two terms from computer history: the lid (top part with the screen) of a laptop or notebook, and a flat tablet form factor (slate).
Because I love computer history, but I wanted to build some original stuff. And its a fun reboot from the fails at me (trying to) build stuff in the past. A lot of the ideas that are in lidslate come from this... and I hope you enjoy it!
And... I got tired of the way most Linux-based environments on my stuff feels, and wanted to build something that I felt looked nice on any screen.
It's unique features. Seriously, fr, that'd be the reason I'd give to anyone to try it out (or to anyone looking to support the project!)
System requirements start with either a legacy Mac set up to run lidslate or a standard PC, with an Intel x64 (or AMD/amd64) processor.Â
Your computer will also need to include UEFI (if you're downloading the Forward edition, and almost all computers since 2012 do), bootable USB support, and at least a 1024x600 resolution (8 inch netbook) or larger screen. Legacy builds also support old 32-bit (i686) and 64-bit computers without UEFI.
Limitations:
Apple Silicon Macs (M1-M3) cannot run lidslate on real hardware, and will need to run it in a virtual environment like UTM.
Chromebooks will need to be unlocked with the write screw removed to run lidslate, either from an external drive or internal storage.
Secure Boot is NOT supported. You will need to turn this feature off to use lidslate on real hardware.
Also... please be aware:
Not all GPUs, wireless/cell cards, and Wifi cards are supported, although lidslate does try to support non-free firmware by default.
Devices that can't run the lidslate OS on bare hardware like the iPad and Apple Silicon Macs can run a demo or 'paper shell' that has some demo ideas from the UI in it called Papercarbonate.