Note
pearlOS is no longer developed on github and is instead developed on codeberg. The github version will still be up and all but it won't be updated.
pearlOS is an awesome operating system based of (and a continuation of) the discontinued pidi-os. I highly recommend you to check out the new rust-based operating system made by the same author; RezOS. pearlOS was made for me to learn operating system things and also to become better at C and Assembly. I am extremely inconsistent in the way I update things and I kind of just implement things as I go so keep that in mind :P

Warning: Image may be outdated.
Note
Compilation is only guaranteed on Linux with Clang ISO C17, but it is also possible in Windows with virtualization solutions like WSL (on Windows 11) or hyperV.
On a Debian based OS (Debian, Ubuntu, Kali etc.):
sudo apt-get install build-essential clang nasm qemu grub2-common grub-pc-bin xorrisoTo build the OS and create a bootable ISO:
makeTo build and run the OS in QEMU:
make run # or "make qemu"- Build the ISO:
make- Use
ddto write the ISO to a USB drive (replace/dev/sdXwith your USB device):
sudo dd if=build/pearlos.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress && syncWARNING: Be very careful with the device name as this will erase all data on the target device.
If you encounter any issues during the build process, please check the following:
- Ensure all dependencies are installed
- Check that you have sufficient disk space
- Verify that your system meets the minimum requirements
- Consult the troubleshooting guide for common issues
To uninstall, simply run:
make cleanIf you want to see the differences between pearlOS and pidi-os, see PIDI-DIFF.md.
I accept all meaningful contributions! As long as it doesn't break the project, I'll probably accept your contribution.
I'm a bit inconsistent on when I actually, y'know, maintain and update this, but I can assure you, even if you see a 5-month pause, THE PROJECT IS NOT DEAD. If the project dies, you can expect archival or at least a message.
The official pearlOS documentation can be viewed here, but keep in mind that I'm not that consistent on updating the documentation, though it becomes pretty clear on what you have to do if you just... rtfc (read the fucking code).
This project is licensed under the HL3-Core (Hippocratic License 3 Core) license. As long as you abide by the terms of the license, you can use this software however you like.
Since late June of 2025, pearlOS has been codeveloped by @callmesalmon and @androvonx95.