A systemd-sysupdate plugin for GNOME Software

In late June 2024 I got asked to take over the work started byJerry Wucreating asystemd-sysupdateplugin forSoftware. The goal was to allow Software to update sysupdate targets, such as base system images orsystem extension images, all while respecting the user's preferences such as whether to download updates on metered connections. To do so, the plugin communicates with thesystemd-sysupdateddaemon via itsorg.freedesktop.sysupdate1D-Bus interface.

I didn't know many of the things required to complete this project and it's been a lot to chew in one bite for me, hence how long it took to complete.

Adrien Plazas

This new plugin was one of the final pieces of moving GNOME OS - which we talked about before - from OSTree to sysupdate, which in turn is part of GNOME OS' effort to have a fully trusted boot sequence. While I'm not sure GNOME OS is something that will find a lot of uptake among the kind of people that read OSNews, I think it's a hugely important effort to create a no-nonsense, easy-to-use Linux system for normal people to embrace. The Steam Deck employs similar implementations, and it's easy to see why.