Ubuntu, one of the most popular Linux distributions, is known for its stability and reliability. Recently, Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, announced a major policy change regarding the integration of the Linux kernel.

The Canonical Kernel Team will now start incorporating the latest version of the Linux kernel into Ubuntu releases, even if the final stable build is not yet available. This decision marks a significant shift in Ubuntu’s approach to kernel updates.

Ubuntu follows a strict time-based release schedule, with new versions coming out every six months. In contrast, the Linux kernel operates on a more flexible release process, with major updates occurring every two to three months.

This new policy aims to provide users with the latest features and hardware support available in the upstream Linux kernel. While there are risks associated with integrating Release Candidate versions of the kernel, Canonical is committed to providing official support for the specific Linux release included in each Ubuntu version.

Canonical’s decision reflects a desire to meet the evolving needs of Ubuntu users, who increasingly seek access to the most up-to-date technologies. By embracing a more aggressive kernel version commitment policy, Ubuntu is positioning itself as a cutting-edge operating system for both end users and enterprise environments.