There’s a new version of Linux - but don’t go getting too excited
This may be your next LTS kernel, but it isn’t a big step forward
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Linus Torvalds hasannouncedthe release of the Linux 6.6 kernel, stating that the week leading up to its launch had been calm, helping to deliver it on time.
Torvalds described a “random smattering” of smaller fixes across the board, with only one larger fix addressing the r8152 driver.
Linux 6.6 is expected to be the next Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel, and while work is already underway for version 6.7, that’s not expected to be available until early next year.
Linux 6.6 is here, and on time
Eight days before its launch, Torvaldssaidwhile announcing 6.6-rc7 that this was actually a particularly large rc7.
“It is certainly on the bigger side of our rc7 releases in the 6,.x series,” he said, adding that only 6.1 was larger in terms of the number of commits, and that ended up needing an rc8. Fortunately, 6.6 was ultimately released without that extra step.
Version 6.6, introduced late October 2023, adds the EEVDF scheduler, support forIntelShadow Stack, and support for upcoming Intel andAMDplatforms, including Intel’s Lunar Lake and Arrow Lake processors and AMD’s EPYC and Ryzen CPUs.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that Linux would cut long-term support from six years to just two years, which sounds like a huge blow. In reality, though, it is thought that few people continue to use six-year-old kernels - maintaining support for a small handful was therefore deemed unsustainable.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
“The merge window for 6.7 opens tomorrow,” said Torvalds, adding his appreciation for “how many early pull requests I have lined up, with 40+ ready to go.”
More from TechRadar Pro
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
Cisco issues patch to fix serious flaw allowing possible industrial systems takeover
7 myths about email security everyone should stop believing
Lego will let you build Sir Ernest Shackleton’s iconic lost ship, the Endurance, in its next Icons set
