A new operating system that brings life back to discarded computers

A developer nicknamed “Luke 8086” created GentleOS as a hobby project with a clear goal. He wanted to offer enthusiasts a clean platform for working with old x86 hardware, allowing them to run interactive graphics programs as close to the chips as possible. You won’t find a web browser or app store in GentleOS, as the entire focus is on what the computer can do locally. The author has prepared two versions.

The first version is GentleOS/32, which targets 32-bit computers with an i386 or later processor. Depending on the boot image, it requires only 2 to 4 MB of RAM, a mouse, and a VGA display with a resolution of at least 640 x 480 pixels and 16 colors, and also supports higher VESA modes with 256 colors. The second, even more modest version, GentleOS/16, is intended for true 16-bit hardware, such as the 8086 or 80186 processors. This version uses less than 192 KB of RAM and uses basic CGA graphics with a resolution of 320 x 200 pixels and four colors.

As an experimental hobby project, the system lacks advanced features that we take for granted today. Both versions work by compiling all the code into a single binary file that runs directly on the hardware. Similar to the firmware of microcontrollers. The code is written in basic C with a small amount of assembly, which allows developers to easily follow the logic. However, this approach has significant limitations. The system has no virtual memory, separate user and kernel areas, and no multitasking with priority allocation. It also does not offer file storage or networking. The entire system runs entirely in memory and is single-threaded, with a main loop that handles graphics and sends commands to embedded programs.

Despite the technical limitations, the final desktop look is surprisingly homey. The user gets a retro environment with floating windows, a sidebar with icons, and a simple color scheme. Included are a retro clock with large segmented numbers that refresh in real time, the classic Klondike solitaire, a color palette editor, and a system information window. Simple programs for calendaring, basic math, drawing, and some less demanding games also work in the same way.