Zellij 0.42.0 Update: Enhanced Interface and Improved Terminal Management

The open-source terminal multiplexer Zellij has been updated to version 0.42.0, introducing a redesigned user interface, improved window management, and new plugin interfaces. This update enhances the way users can handle multiple terminal sessions within a single window, arranging them in tiled layouts. By default, Zellij intelligently organizes these tiles, but users can also configure their layout preferences through a YAML file for recurring window arrangements.

Running Terminal Applications in the Background

Much like a tiling window manager, Zellij allows users to open multiple terminal tiles side by side and switch between them using keyboard shortcuts. The new window management system now makes it possible to expand tiles into adjacent terminal spaces while also allowing them to be stacked. This feature enables running applications to be moved to the background while keeping them accessible. Users can seamlessly switch between stacked terminals or restore the original tile layout as needed.

Additionally, individual terminals within the tiled view can now be brought to the foreground and freely resized, floating above other tiles. With version 0.42.0, floating tiles can also be pinned, ensuring they remain visible even when switching between terminals. According to developer Aram Drevekenin, this feature is particularly useful for real-time syntax checking when writing code. The update also introduces improved text selection, allowing users to select individual words with a double-click and entire lines with a triple-click.

New Theming System and Plugin Enhancements

The latest release also includes an updated theme specification that goes beyond simple colour schemes, enabling the customization of individual interface elements. This enhancement aims to encourage the community to develop new themes for the multiplexer.

On the plugin side, improvements include a new host folder for plugins, support for mouse movement detection, and compatibility with the latest tile management functions. These changes make plugins more versatile and better integrated into the workflow.

All updates and refinements introduced in Zellij 0.42.0 are documented in the changelog. Currently, the Rust-based multiplexer is available for x64 and ARM64 systems running Linux and macOS. Meanwhile, another terminal emulator, Kitty, has also received an update.