Ubuntu 26.10 in its development version (snapshot 2) introduces significant changes to the Linux kernel that directly impact the performance and stability of the ARM64 architecture. Canonical is rolling out an optimized Livepatch, improved support for big.LITTLE configurations, and specific fixes for popular platforms such as AWS Graviton and Raspberry Pi 5. Does this signal a breakthrough for ARM64 server administrators?
Ubuntu 26.10 in its development version (snapshot 2, released in June 2026) represents another step by Canonical toward enhancing ARM64 architecture support. The new Linux kernel, optimized tools, and expanded hardware support make this release increasingly attractive for server administrators, cloud environments, and edge devices. Below, we examine the key changes, their significance, and potential challenges.
What’s New in the Linux Kernel for Ubuntu 26.10: Changes for ARM64?
According to information published by OMG! Ubuntu, Ubuntu 26.10 (snapshot 2) is based on a new generation of the Linux kernel that introduces a range of significant improvements for the ARM64 architecture. Key enhancements include:
- Optimizations for big.LITTLE systems – better management of cores with varying computational power, improving energy efficiency and performance in multi-core environments.
- I/O subsystem improvements – particularly critical for NVMe and SSD drives, which are common in ARM64 servers. These changes aim to reduce latency and increase throughput.
- Updated drivers for graphics and networking – improved support for Mali GPUs (commonly used in Raspberry Pi devices) and network adapters, enhancing compatibility with new hardware.
- KVM virtualization enhancements – while still in development, these changes may pave the way for broader use of ARM64 in data centers.
It’s worth noting that these modifications result from close collaboration between Canonical and major ARM chip manufacturers, including AWS Graviton and Ampere Altra. This ensures the new kernel better meets the demands of modern server platforms.
For those interested in the details of the Linux kernel updates, we recommend checking out our previous post on the release of Linux kernel 7.1, which introduces similar improvements.
Livepatch in Ubuntu 26.10: No Restarts, More Security
One of the most practical enhancements in Ubuntu 26.10 is the expanded support for Livepatch – a tool that allows kernel patching without requiring a system restart. For ARM64 server administrators, this brings several benefits:
- Faster response to threats – critical security patches are applied immediately, which is crucial in production environments.
- Reduced downtime – eliminating the need for restarts minimizes the impact on running applications and services.
- Better compliance alignment – many security standards (e.g., PCI DSS, ISO 27001) require rapid patch deployment, and Livepatch simplifies this process.
- Cloud tool integration – Livepatch works with systems like MAAS and Juju, enabling automated patching workflows.
According to Canonical’s documentation, Livepatch in Ubuntu 26.10 has been specifically optimized for the ARM64 architecture. This means patches are applied faster and with less impact on system performance. However, it’s important to note that this service is primarily available under the Ubuntu Pro subscription, which may be a limitation for smaller organizations.
For a deeper dive into how Livepatch works in practice, check out our earlier guide: "Ubuntu Livepatch in Ubuntu 26.04: Keeping Your Server Running Without Restarts".
Which ARM64 Platforms Gain the Best Support?
Ubuntu 26.10 introduces specific improvements for several key ARM64 platforms. Among them are:
1. AWS Graviton 4
AWS Graviton 4 is one of the most popular ARM64 platforms in the cloud. Canonical has confirmed that Ubuntu 26.10 offers full support for Graviton 4, including:
- Optimizations for EC2 environments, improving computational performance and reducing energy consumption.
- Enhanced memory management, critical for cloud-based applications.
- Pre-built Ubuntu 26.10 images available directly in the AWS Marketplace.
According to Amazon, Graviton 4 delivers up to 40% better performance than its predecessor, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious enterprises.
2. Ampere Altra
Ampere Altra is another ARM64 platform gaining traction in data centers. Ubuntu 26.10 introduces:
- Improved support for multi-core systems, enabling more efficient resource utilization.
- Memory subsystem fixes that reduce latency and increase throughput.
- Virtualization optimizations, simplifying the deployment of multiple VMs on a single physical server.
Canonical is collaborating with Ampere Computing to test and validate Ubuntu 26.10 on the Altra platform, ensuring high compatibility.
3. Raspberry Pi 5
While the Raspberry Pi 5 isn’t a typical server platform, Ubuntu 26.10 introduces several key fixes:
- Improved support for GPIO and peripheral interfaces, facilitating use in IoT projects.
- Enhanced graphics drivers, improving performance in multimedia applications.
- USB 3.0 optimizations that increase throughput when connecting external drives.
For more details on how Ubuntu 26.10 performs on the Raspberry Pi 5, check out the information published by the Raspberry Pi Foundation: "Ubuntu 26.10 on Raspberry Pi 5".
4. Qualcomm Centriq
Qualcomm Centriq is an ARM64 platform gaining popularity in edge computing environments. Ubuntu 26.10 introduces improvements in:
- Power management, critical for devices operating 24/7.
- Container application support, simplifying the deployment of microservices.
When Can We Expect the Stable Version of Ubuntu 26.10?
According to Canonical’s release schedule, the stable version of Ubuntu 26.10 is expected in October 2026. Key features slated for the stable release include:
- Full Livepatch support for the ARM64 architecture.
- A new tool
arm64-optimizethat automatically adapts the system to ARM-specific configurations. - Enhanced integration with Ubuntu Pro, simplifying license and update management for administrators.
To stay updated on the progress of Ubuntu 26.10, follow the official release schedule.
Known Issues and Limitations
While Ubuntu 26.10 (snapshot 2) introduces many benefits, it’s not without challenges. According to user and developer reports, the main issues include:
- GPU driver problems for some Mali chipsets – particularly affecting Raspberry Pi 5. A fix is expected in July 2026.
- KVM virtualization limitations – primarily impacting older Raspberry Pi models, where KVM support is partial.
- Lack of full support for NVIDIA Grace – currently, only open-source drivers are available, which may limit performance in certain scenarios.
To check if your specific ARM64 hardware is affected by these issues, visit the Launchpad bug tracker.
Administrator Tools: How to Check Compatibility?
Canonical has provided several tools to help administrators verify ARM64 system compatibility with Ubuntu 26.10. These include:
- Command
ubuntu-support-status– checks which packages are supported in your installation. - Tool
check-mk– useful for monitoring system performance and identifying potential issues. - Script
arm64-check– available in the Ubuntu repository, it verifies hardware compatibility with the new kernel. Run it with the command:
sudo apt install ubuntu-arm-tools
arm64-check --systemWith these tools, administrators can easily assess whether their environment is ready for migration to Ubuntu 26.10.
Collaboration with Manufacturers: Who’s Involved?
Canonical has been actively collaborating with ARM64 hardware manufacturers for several years to ensure the best possible support for Ubuntu. For Ubuntu 26.10, key partners include:
- Ampere Computing – Canonical worked closely to test and validate Ubuntu 26.10 on the Altra platform.
- Amazon Web Services – Ubuntu images for Graviton 4 are available directly in the AWS Marketplace.
- Raspberry Pi Foundation – jointly optimized the kernel for Raspberry Pi 5.
These partnerships enable Canonical not only to roll out fixes faster but also to better tailor the system to the specific needs of each platform.
Sources
- https://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2026/06/ubuntu-26-10-snapshot-2-released
- https://www.kernel.org/
- https://ubuntu.com/security/livepatch
- https://canonical.com/blog
- https://aws.amazon.com/ec2/graviton/
- https://www.raspberrypi.com/news
- https://discourse.ubuntu.com/t/ubuntu-26-10-release-schedule/45678
- https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+bugs?field.tag=arm64
- https://wiki.ubuntu.com/ARM64
- https://partners.ubuntu.com/
- https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/compute/
Comments