Asahi Linux 7.1 adds kernel support for M1 and M2 chips

The Asahi Linux project published its 7.1 progress report, outlining the latest kernel and driver updates for Apple Silicon devices [Asahi Linux Blog].

What shipped

Version 7.1 adds native support for Apple’s M1 and M2 processors in the mainline Linux kernel, closing long‑standing gaps in CPU initialization and power management. The report also notes driver refinements for the integrated GPU, USB controllers, and Wi‑Fi modules, delivering smoother graphics, faster peripheral handling, and more reliable wireless connectivity. Together, these changes raise the baseline stability of the distribution and reduce the need for work‑arounds that previously plagued developers.

Why it matters

Engineers targeting Apple Silicon now have a Linux environment that boots reliably, runs workloads without frequent crashes, and offers hardware‑level performance comparable to the macOS baseline. The tighter integration of kernel features means developers can test, prototype, and deploy software directly on M1/M2 hardware, shortening the feedback loop for open‑source projects that depend on ARM‑based Macs. By delivering a more production‑ready stack, Asahi Linux lowers the barrier for enterprises and hobbyists alike to adopt Linux on Apple devices.

Poll: Which Linux distribution do you prefer for Apple Silicon devices?

• Asahi Linux
• Ubuntu
• Fedora
• Manjaro