If you use Lubuntu 22.04 and want to upgrade to LXQt 1.4, the latest version of the Qt-based desktop, you can now do so using the Lubuntu Backports PPA.
Like the Kubuntu Backports PPA, which brings newer versions of KDE Plasma to those using long-term support editions, the Lubuntu Backports PPA brings newer versions of the LXQt desktop.
Devs say this approach provides the “perfect middle ground between stability and new features that users of all experience levels will be able to enjoy”.
Lubuntu 22.04 shipped with LXQt 0.17.0, and this PPA has been providing users with packages for subsequent releases.
LXQt 1.4.0 was released in early November, and is based on Qt 5.1 LTS. It offers an improved menu backend, initial support for colour profiles in LXImage, an audible bell option in QTerminal, plus a variety of bug fixes, and small changes.
To add the Lubuntu Backports on Lubuntu 22.04:
- Open a new terminal window
- Run
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:lubuntu-dev/backports - Enter your password when prompted
With the PPA added, run an update check using your preferred tool, then install package upgrades available to you. Once installed, you should reboot your computer so updated packages, settings, etc work as intended.
After adding the PPA you will not be able to upgrade 22.04 to later releases (without removing the PPA and downgrading packages back to their original versions). But as Lubuntu 22.04 LTS is supported until 2025, this isn’t something you need to do soon anyway.