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Ubuntu 26.10 is available: what’s new and how it compares with LTS
English edition published on .
Ubuntu 26.10 “Stonking Stingray” was released on 15 October 2026. This interim release brings a newer desktop and system components, with support announced until July 2027. When choosing a release, the time you can devote to future upgrades matters as much as new features.
The release is confirmed by the Ubuntu team’s announcement of 15 October, and final images are available in the official 26.10 directory. This is the stable release, distinct from images still labelled “beta”.
What changes for desktop users
Ubuntu 26.10 includes GNOME 51 and Linux kernel 7.3. These changes may justify a trial if you need support for newer hardware, but do not guarantee that every peripheral will work on your computer.
Canonical’s announcement also introduces Myna, an opt-in voice transcription feature using locally run models. This initial use should not be confused with all the future assistance features discussed in the roadmap.
The wider use of core utilities written in Rust and changes to package signing mainly concern system components. If you rely on work scripts, check their behaviour in a test environment before upgrading your workstation.
Should you leave Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?
The release of 26.10 does not make the LTS obsolete. At the time of the original article, the Ubuntu Desktop download page offered 26.04.1 LTS alongside 26.10. The Ubuntu release cycle distinguishes LTS support from the nine-month support period for interim releases.
- If keeping the same base for longer is your priority: remaining on a supported LTS and installing its updates is a reasonable choice.
- If you want the new desktop or need to check specific hardware support: try 26.10, then plan your next upgrade before its support ends.
- If you depend on your computer every day: first check the applications, extensions and peripherals your work requires.
Before downloading or upgrading
For a fresh installation, our Ubuntu download page explains image selection, signature verification and USB media preparation. It also covers the official warning about keyboards on Snapdragon X1 laptops.
For an existing installation, follow the official upgrade procedure: make an independent backup, install system updates and read the instructions before starting. The announcement says 26.10 will be offered to 26.04 users who have enabled notifications for all releases; this does not require you to abandon the LTS schedule.
Our Ubuntu profile explains edition differences and what to test. A virtual machine helps you explore the interface but cannot validate every physical peripheral.