Discover is the default package manager for the KDE Plasma desktop.

This is also the primary way you download updates or remove installed apps.

These are typically popular KDE apps that many people have downloaded and given a positive review.

kde discover featured laptop

To download the app, click theInstallbutton in the toolbar.

How to Download Updates

If there are updates available, they will appear in Discover’s sidebar.

Clicking this pop-up opens up Discover.

KDE Discover displaying featured applications

The Updates page tells you whether updates are for system components or apps.

Depending on your Linux distribution, you may receive a prompt to cycle your gear to complete the process.

This is likely a long list since it includes far more than just the apps on your machine.

KDE Discover displaying multimedia apps

Here you will also find widgets, fonts, libraries, add-ons, and more.

you might clickRemovenext to any of the components to attempt to uninstall them.

Sometimes the process won’t work if the item in question is a system component.

KDE Discover displaying details about Krita

How to Add or Configure App Sources

TheSettingstab shows what sources you pull software from.

One set will include your system repositories, which change depending on which Linux distribution you use.

Arch-based distros will show different sources than Ubuntu ones.

KDE Discover displaying available updates

You may also see universal app formats, such as Flatpak and Snap.

Here you’re able to also find firmware-related sources,such as the Linux Vendor Firmware Service.

Discover lists all kinds of add-ons for the Plasma desktop.

KDE Discover displaying installed apps

The most functional jot down are known as widgets.

These are a more integral part of the KDE Plasma experience than on other desktops.

When you download new widgets, they can appear on your desktop or a panel.

A list of app sources in KDE Discover

Other add-ons come in many forms, such as those that tweak how your desktop interface and apps look.

The options range from window decorations and themes to special effects that include making your windows erupt in flames.

The add-ons aren’t limited to your desktop’s appearance.

KDE Discover displaying available Plasma addons

Some can alter how your interface behaves.

Or you’re free to swap your floating app windows for a tiling window manager experience.

This is part of what sets KDE Plasma apart.

you’re able to find these features directly in KDE Discover.

What Will You Discover With KDE?

It would be an oversimplification to think of KDE Discover as merely an app store.

On Plasma, these additions aren’t thought of as extras.

They’re a core part of the KDE experience.

Apart from official repositories, you could also choose to install software from Flathub or Snap Store.