Overview

PipeWire is a cutting-edge multimedia framework for Linux that handles audio and video routing, capture, and processing with low latency. Developed by Wim Taymans at Red Hat, PipeWire is designed as a modern replacement for both PulseAudio (consumer audio) and JACK (professional audio), unifying Linux audio under a single, secure, and performant framework. It is now the default audio system on Fedora, Ubuntu, Arch Linux, and most major distributions.

Key Features

• Unified Audio: Replaces both PulseAudio and JACK, handling consumer and professional audio in one service
• Low Latency: Achieves sub-10ms round-trip latency for professional audio workflows
• Security-First: Flatpak/Sandbox-aware design with per-application audio permissions via Polkit
• Pro Audio Features: Sample-exact timing, JACK-compatible API, and graph-based routing
• Video Pipeline: Handles video capture and screen sharing alongside audio (built-in replacement for v4l2)
• Session Management: Automatic device detection, profile switching, and routing configuration
• Bluetooth Audio: Native support for Bluetooth headsets with LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs

Why Use It

PipeWire solves the long-standing fragmentation in Linux audio by providing a single, modern framework that works for everyone — from casual desktop users to professional audio engineers. Its security model makes it ideal for sandboxed applications (Flatpak, Snap), while its low-latency performance satisfies demanding audio production workflows.

Use Cases

• Desktop audio playback and recording
• Professional music production with low-latency monitoring
• Screen sharing and video capture (Wayland + X11)
• Bluetooth headset audio
• Live streaming and podcast production

Platforms

Linux

Licence

MIT License

Website

pipewire.org