A key component of the forthcoming Ubuntu 23.04 version will be the Linux kernel 6.2.
Okay, looking back, it’s not really that shocking. After all, the most recent stable kernel version is Linux 6.2, which was made available well before the introduction of Ubuntu 23.04. (meaning devs have plenty of time to plumb it in and test it out).
However, given that it is an LTS and that Canonical has recently been trying it in Lunar dailies, some people (including myself) did question if the company might decide to stay with Linux kernel 6.1.
But no, Linux kernel 6.2 will be used in Ubuntu 23.04.
This is a significant thing because the kernel that comes with Ubuntu’s short-term versions is usually backported to the most current LTS in the form of a hardware enablement (HWE) upgrade, regardless of whether you intend to use Lunar or not.
The kernel confirmation arrives by way of the Ubuntu developer mailing list, particularly this quote:
in Lunar, no further 6.1 builds will be done for any kernel flavour for the time being. And v6.2 landing, across all flavours, is in progress.Canonical’s Dimitri John Ledkov
Exciting stuff.
Linux 6.2 comes pre-installed with all the new device support, speed tweaks, file system improvements, etc. that you might anticipate from a new kernel.
There are a few noteworthy pull-outs, including Sony DualShock 4 controller support in the Playstation HID driver, Raspberry Pi 4K @ 60Hz display support, and improved power savings for Intel Alder Lake N/Raptor Lake P devices.
The introduction of Ubuntu 23.04 is scheduled for April 20, 2023. If you’d like to assist in testing it, a beta version will be made available in the upcoming weeks. Daily ISO pictures are also, as always, accessible for your use.
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