Provides a live GNOME environment to install Arch Linux using **Cnchi**, the original Antergos installer — overhauled for modern Python (GTK4), with multi-DE support and the original installer experience re-engineered for 2026.
This is not a museum piece. We keep what worked, fix what broke, and aren't afraid to add new things. Cnchi stays because it's what makes Antergos *Antergos* — but we've gutted the guts and replaced the pipes.
**Calamares** is also included as an **experimental** alternative installer.
## Why Cnchi and not Calamares?
| | Cnchi (default) | Calamares (experimental) |
|---|---|---|
| **Status** | Primary installer, actively developed | Experimental, community requested |
| **Experience** | Original Antergos feel, custom GTK4 UI | Standard Calamares workflow |
| **Development** | Part of the project's DNA | Porting effort, needs testing |
**Q: Why not just use Calamares like everyone else?**
A: Because Antergos NeXT is a revival of *Antergos*, not another EndeavourOS or Arch derivative. Cnchi *is* the Antergos installer. Replacing it would defeat the purpose.
**Q: So why include Calamares at all?**
A: Community feedback. Some users prefer Calamares' workflow. We're not here to force anyone — both are available. Pick the one that fits you.
**Q: Is Calamares fully functional?**
A: Not yet. It's experimental. Some features (lembrame, desktop-specific tweaks) are Cnchi-only. Calamares is there for testing and as a fallback.
**Q: Will Calamares become the default in the future?**
A: Only if Cnchi becomes unmaintainable. As long as Cnchi works, it stays default. Calamares is a backup, not a replacement.
**⚠️ Early releases may have incomplete DE package lists.** The latest `packages.xml` is always in the [cnchi-next repo](https://github.com/Antergos-NeXT/cnchi-next/blob/cnchi-dev/data/packages.xml). Building from source after a fresh clone ensures you have the most up-to-date package selection.
If you came here to hate and you're about to type "why are you using Antergos's branding" — pack your bags and go to Pulsar Linux (formerly Antergos NeXT). We have Dustin's blessing. We are respectful. We are not them. Move on.
*Antergos launched in 2012 as **Cinnarch** (Cinnamon + Arch), renamed in 2013, and ran until 2019. NeXT revives it GNOME first, with the original installer experience and all the desktop choices you remember.*
*Dustin Falgout, one of the original Antergos developers, has given his blessing for this community revival ([see NOTICES](NOTICES)). Antergos NeXT is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the original Antergos project.*
