Ubuntu 26.10 Targets Linux 7.2 as Default Kernel
Ubuntu 26.10, the next Ubuntu version that’s scheduled for October 15, targets to use Linux 7.2 as the default Kernel.
The Ubuntu developer team announced this decision one day ago in Ubuntu Discourse:
Based on the current Linux release predictions, the mainline v7.2 kernel is expected to be released on Sunday, 2026-08-30. This timing aligns well with the key deadlines and dates for the Stonking Stingray release cycle.
Image by Axel Schäfer from Pixabay
As you may know, Ubuntu changed the policy to adopt the latest kernel for future releases since 24.10 version.
The next Ubuntu 26.10, code-name Stonking Stingray, is a short-term release with 9 months support, which will feature GNOME Desktop 51 if everything goes well.
According to this prediction, the latest kernel at that time will be Linux 7.2. Thus, Ubuntu developer team announced that the 7.2 kernel has been selected as the target version for 26.10.
New Features in Linux 7.2
Linux 7.2 merge window is not open yet. But some features have been revealed based on on early “‑next” activity.
According to phoronix, Linux 7.2 will feature cache aware scheduling, that significantly benefits modern Intel and AMD CPUs by reducing cache misses and lowering data access latency.
It will add huge folios support for Btrfs file system, allowing up to 2MB memory folios each, that greatly improve I/O throughput and lower CPU overhead, and, introduce OPENAT2_REGULAR flag for VFS to avoid tricking secure programs.
Intel Trusted Domain Extensions (TDX) will allow updates with needing to restart the running server, and, the incorrect maximum frequency value report for P-core-only Bartlett Lake processors will be fixed.
Other changes include:
- Introduce AMDGPU DC power module.
- Default to fair DRM scheduler rather than FIFO.
- Improve performance on Valve’s Steam Deck.
- Support Realtek RTL8159 10GbE USB Ethernet.
- Support Switchtec PCIe Gen6 Switches
More about Linux Kernel 7.2 will be reported in kernelnewbies and phoronix once it’s officially released.
Try out Ubuntu 26.10
Ubuntu 26.10 Daily Live CD image is already available to download in Ubuntu website via the link below:
According to past few Ubuntu releases, there will be probably monthly snapshot releases as well. Along with the final .iso images, they will be available to download at this page.
And, below is the release table for Ubuntu 26.10, according to the official release schedule.
| August 20, 2026 | 26.10 Feature Freeze, Debian Import Freeze |
| September 24, 2026 | 26.10 Beta |
| October 01, 2026 | Kernel Feature Freeze |
| October 08, 2026 | 26.10 Final Freeze |
| October 15, 2026 | 26.10 Final Release |
As well, you may keep an eye on this page for the official release note for Ubuntu 26.10.
Source: UbuntuHandbook