Last checked and updated on April 15, 2026What Is New in Ubuntu 21.10
| Category | Key Updates |
|---|---|
| Linux Kernel | Upgraded to Linux Kernel 5.13 |
| Desktop Environment | GNOME 40 desktop stack |
| Toolchain | GCC 11, LLVM 13, Python 3.9.7, Ruby 3.0, Perl 5.34 |
| Cloud & Containers | Updated OpenStack, Kubernetes, and Docker components |
| Security | Active Directory integration, USB firewall, updated crypto |
| Deprecated | Python 2 removed from the main archive |
What's the new kernel and why does it matter?
Ubuntu 21.10 ships with Linux kernel 5.13. This brings support for newer hardware, including Intel Alder Lake CPUs and initial support for Apple M1 SoCs. For developers, this means better performance and compatibility with the latest laptops and development machines right out of the box.
How does GNOME 40 change the desktop experience?
The GNOME 40 desktop stack is the most noticeable change. It introduces a redesigned Activities Overview with a horizontal workspace switcher, making multitasking more intuitive. The overall feel is snappier, which matters for daily workflow efficiency.
What toolchain updates should developers expect?
The development toolchain got a significant refresh. GCC 11 and LLVM 13 are the default system compilers, offering new language features and optimizations. Python 3.9.7 is now the default, and Python 2 has finally been removed from the main archive, which is a clear signal to migrate all legacy code.
Other key language updates include Ruby 3.0 and Perl 5.34. This keeps Ubuntu aligned with the latest stable releases from these ecosystems, which is crucial for modern application development.
Are there any new security features for enterprise setups?
Yes, the Active Directory integration has been improved, making it easier to join Ubuntu desktops to a Windows domain. A new USB firewall feature helps block unauthorized USB devices, which is a straightforward way to mitigate a common physical attack vector.
Under the hood, cryptographic libraries and security packages have been updated to their latest versions, patching known vulnerabilities and supporting modern crypto standards.
What's new for cloud and container deployments?
The cloud stack sees updates to key components. OpenStack is now at the Xena release, Kubernetes components have been refreshed, and Docker-related packages are updated. For anyone deploying to or managing private clouds, these updates provide access to the latest features and APIs.
FAQ
Is Python 2 still available in Ubuntu 21.10?
No, Python 2 has been completely removed from the main archive. You'll need to use Python 3 or find a third-party PPA or other source if you absolutely must run legacy Python 2 code.
Does the new kernel improve gaming performance?
Kernel 5.13 includes improvements to the futex system call which can reduce latency, potentially benefiting gaming. It also has better support for newer graphics hardware from AMD and Intel.
Can I upgrade directly from Ubuntu 20.04 LTS to 21.10?
While technically possible, it's not the recommended path. LTS-to-LTS upgrades (e.g., 20.04 to 22.04) are smoother. Upgrading from an LTS to an interim release like 21.10 can sometimes lead to more complex issues.
What happened to the default Yaru theme?
The Yaru theme is still the default but has been updated with a new 'light' and 'dark' style instead of the previous 'light', 'dark', and 'standard' variants. The overall look has been refined for GNOME 40.
Is Wayland the default display server?
Yes, Wayland remains the default display protocol for most users. The X.Org session is still available as an option from the login screen for applications or drivers that require it.