In the world of modern development tools, Linux support often feels like an afterthought. While tools like VS Code and JetBrains IDEs have excellent Linux integration, newer AI-powered editors frequently lag behind. This is particularly evident with Cursor, an AI-first code editor that's gaining traction in the developer community.
The Problem
Cursor's official Linux distribution method leaves much to be desired. Users are expected to manually download AppImages, manage permissions, and set up desktop integration themselves. This creates unnecessary friction for developers who just want to get started with the tool. In an era where developer experience is paramount, this kind of friction is unacceptable.
The Solution
I've created a set of installation scripts that bring Cursor's Linux experience up to par with other professional development tools. The solution is simple but effective:
curl -sSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/t128n/cursor-linux/main/install.sh | sudo bash
One command. That's all it takes to get Cursor properly installed on your Linux system.
Why This Matters
When we accept subpar installation processes, we're implicitly telling tool creators that Linux support is an afterthought. By creating and sharing these installation scripts, I'm not just making life easier for Linux users – I'm demonstrating what proper Linux support should look like.
The scripts handle everything:
- Proper system integration
- Desktop environment compatibility
- Automatic updates
- Clean uninstallation
Technical Details
The implementation is straightforward but robust. The scripts:
- Download the latest AppImage directly from Cursor's servers
- Install to
/opt/cursor(following Linux filesystem hierarchy standards) - Set up proper permissions and symlinks
- Create desktop entries for seamless integration
- Handle updates and uninstallation gracefully
Try It Out
If you're a Linux user interested in Cursor, give these scripts a try. They're open source, well-documented, and designed to make your life easier. And if you find any issues or have suggestions for improvement, contributions are welcome.
Remember: good developer experience isn't just about the features of a tool. It's about how easily and reliably you can get started with it. Let's raise the bar for Linux support in modern development tools.
Original Article: https://t128n.github.io/writings/2025-05-08_simplifying_cursor_installation_on_linux