Ubuntu 24.04 uses FUSE 3 by default, but most AppImages still require the older FUSE 2 library to function. Follow these steps to get them running.

1. Install the Compatibility Library

The most critical step is installing the libfuse2t64 package.

Do not install the package named fuse. On Ubuntu 24.04, this will trigger the removal of fuse3, which can break your desktop environment (specifically the ubuntu-desktop meta-package).

Open your terminal and run:

sudo apt update && sudo apt install libfuse2t64

2. Set Execution Permissions

An AppImage must be marked as executable before it can run.

Via Terminal

chmod +x /path/to/your-app.AppImage

Via File Manager (GUI)

  1. Right-click the .AppImage file.

  2. Select Properties.

  3. Go to the Permissions tab.

  4. Check the box for Allow executing file as program.

3. Launch the Application

You can now launch the app by double-clicking it or via the terminal:

./your-app.AppImage

Troubleshooting & Tips

  • Electron Apps: If an app (like BalenaEtcher) fails to open, try running it with the --no-sandbox flag: ./your-app.AppImage --no-sandbox

  • Desktop Integration: AppImages don’t automatically appear in your application menu. Consider using tools like Gear Lever (available on Flathub) to manage them and create shortcuts.