activate-linux is a utility that displays the "Activate Windows" watermark on Linux systems using cairo in C.
The project recreates the familiar Windows activation watermark as a novelty tool for Linux users. It works by rendering a semi-transparent overlay on the desktop using cairo for graphics rendering and integrates with X11 and Wayland display servers. The tool supports command-line arguments to customize its behavior, documented in the ARGS.md file.
The tool suits developers and Linux users looking for a humorous desktop customization. It builds on multiple Linux distributions through native package managers: Ubuntu via PPA, Arch Linux through the AUR, NixOS as a flake, and Gentoo via ebuild. Windows users can install it through Scoop. The project also compiles on macOS, though the README notes that an alternative project may be preferable for that platform. Building requires cairo, Pango, and various X11 and Wayland development libraries on Linux. The project supports both traditional make-based builds and experimental Xmake builds.
The project maintains a substantial user base, with nearly all open issues originating from external users rather than the core team. Responses to issues and pull requests typically arrive within one to two weeks. Development activity centers on enhancement requests, indicating ongoing refinement driven by user feedback.
