The upcoming KDE Plasma Login Manager (PLM), set to debut in Plasma 6.6, will not support systemd-free Linux distributions or BSD systems. This decision stems from PLM's deep integration with systemd, relying on systemd-logind and user services. This dependency makes it incompatible with systems lacking systemd, like FreeBSD and other niche Linux distros.

The reliance on systemd means users on non-systemd systems will be unable to use the new login manager. While this impacts the login process, it doesn't prevent them from running the Plasma desktop environment itself, which will continue to utilize SDDM or other platform-specific startup mechanisms. KDE developers acknowledge the limited support, but prioritize the majority user base.

This move has generated discussion within the community, especially among FreeBSD users who have relied on KDE for years. The change raises concerns about the future of SDDM, the existing login manager, and the overall direction of KDE's development. It appears that the focus is on streamlining the user experience for the majority, even at the expense of niche platforms.

Looking ahead, users of systemd-free systems will need to continue using alternative login managers like SDDM. The long-term implications of this decision remain to be seen, but it highlights the growing influence of systemd in the Linux ecosystem and its impact on software compatibility.