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Linux 7.2-rc3 Kernel Adds Support for Sega Dreamcast Hardware

WireByte Staff · July 12, 2026

The Linux 7.2-rc3 kernel has been updated to include support for Sega Dreamcast hardware, specifically its input subsystem, with new drivers for mouse, keyboard, and joystick peripherals. This means that users can create specialized Linux builds on CD-R for their Dreamcast consoles. The updates were submitted by Dmitry Torokhov and merged by Linus Torvalds.

Key points

  • Dmitry Torokhov submitted updates addressing the Sega Dreamcast's input subsystem for the Linux 7.2-rc3 kernel.
  • The updates include new drivers for mouse, keyboard, and joystick peripherals, and fix timing bugs that caused crashes.
  • The changes will allow users to create specialized Linux builds on CD-R for their Dreamcast consoles.
  • The Dreamcast continues to receive support, unlike other older computing architectures such as the i486 and DEC Alpha.
  • The updates were merged by Linus Torvalds and are expected to be included in future versions of Linux.

Linux 7.2-rc3 Kernel Adds Support for Sega Dreamcast Hardware

The Linux community has made another move to preserve the legacy of the Sega Dreamcast, a console that has maintained a dedicated following despite being discontinued over two decades ago. The recent update to the Linux 7.2-rc3 kernel includes support for the Dreamcast's input subsystem, thanks to updates submitted by Dmitry Torokhov.

The new drivers for mouse, keyboard, and joystick peripherals are designed to provide a more stable experience for users of the Dreamcast. Specifically, the updates address timing bugs that caused crashes in the Sega Dreamcast (Maple) mouse driver, as well as issues with the ordering of driver data and device registration in the Maple drivers.

This development is significant because it allows users to create specialized Linux builds on CD-R for their Dreamcast consoles. This means that fans of the console can continue to enjoy their favorite games and applications on their Dreamcast, even as other older computing architectures such as the i486 and DEC Alpha are being phased out.

The inclusion of Dreamcast support in the Linux kernel is a testament to the dedication of the Linux community to preserving the legacy of older hardware. It also highlights the versatility of Linux as an operating system, which can be adapted to run on a wide range of platforms, from modern computers to retro consoles like the Dreamcast.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.