Linux Kernel 6.18 released
Linus Torvalds has released version 6.18 of the Linux kernel.
While you might notice some last-minute adjustments made right before it hit release, nothing is raising red flags regarding its stability or readiness for deployment just yet. These changes aren't anything major; think more along the lines of minor driver updates across various parts like Bluetooth support, Ceph storage integration, or AFS file system tweaks.
With this version live, Linus has also opened up what's called the "merge window" for kernel 6.19 development. This is where engineers start incorporating significant new features and improvements planned for that release. However, keep in mind the holidays might cause a slight delay. This could potentially push back the first major milestone release, code-named rc1, by at least a week.
Expect to see those official 6.19 steps unfold probably after Linus wraps up his travel following that maintainer summit, meaning the "rc8" tag might apply if things carry over into next year.
Currently, though, Linux Kernel 6.18 is available for you to try out and provide feedback on. Torvalds stressed how vital testing from actual users really is in his announcement. It’s a crucial part of making sure the operating system overall remains stable and secure.
A quick heads-up: over two hundred patches have been included this time around, touching everything from network components (net) to specific hardware interfaces like USB and more. People like Linus Torvalds himself, Jens Axboe, and Alexander Stein definitely put in long hours working on these updates focused significantly on improving performance and reliability.
So go ahead, give 6.18 a spin! If you run into any bumps or glitches while using it, reporting them back is incredibly helpful; it helps spot issues early for everyone else waiting for the next big release.
Linux kernel 6.18 released
Linux kernel version 6.18 is now available:
Full source: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.18.tar.xz
Patch: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/patch-6.18.xz
PGP Signature: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.18.tar.sign
You can view the summary of the changes at the following URL:
https://git.kernel.org/torvalds/ds/v6.18/v6.17
