Last checked and updated on April 15, 2026What Is New in Ubuntu 24.10
Ubuntu 24.10 Oracular Oriole delivers a refreshed Linux kernel, a newer desktop environment, and updated toolchains for developers. This release focuses on enhancing performance and providing the latest open-source software stacks.
| Category | Key Updates |
|---|---|
| New Features | GNOME 47, Linux kernel 6.11, Toolchain updates (GCC 14, glibc 2.40, LLVM 19) |
| Improvements | Enhanced Microsoft Entra ID integration, Updated installer, PipeWire audio by default |
| Under the Hood | Migration to Netplan 1.0, New systemd 256, Updated graphics stacks (Mesa 24.2) |
| Deprecated/Removed | Python 3.12 removed in favor of Python 3.13, Older toolchain components |
What's the big deal with the new Linux 6.11 kernel?
The Linux 6.11 kernel is the core of this release, bringing improved hardware support and performance optimizations. This matters because it ensures better compatibility with newer CPUs, GPUs, and peripherals right out of the box. For developers and sysadmins, it means a more stable and capable foundation for running containers and workloads.
How does GNOME 47 improve the desktop experience?
GNOME 47 refines the user interface with quality-of-life improvements and new features. You get a more responsive workflow with a global search capability activated by clicking the Activities button. In practice, this makes finding apps and files significantly faster without needing to remember keyboard shortcuts.
Why should developers care about the toolchain updates?
The updated toolchains, including GCC 14, glibc 2.40, and LLVM 19, are crucial for building modern software. These versions bring new language features, performance enhancements, and better security hardening. If you're compiling code, especially C++, Rust, or Go, you'll benefit from faster builds and more optimized binaries.
What's new for enterprise and cloud deployments?
For enterprise scenarios, the improved Microsoft Entra ID integration simplifies secure authentication on Ubuntu Desktop. Netplan 1.0 provides a stable, declarative network configuration API that's become essential for automated provisioning. This is a solid release for building scalable cloud images and managed workstations.
Is the audio stack finally moving on from PulseAudio?
Yes, PipeWire is now the default audio and video server, replacing PulseAudio. This transition offers lower latency, better handling of pro-audio workloads, and a unified architecture for handling both audio and video streams. For most users, it just works better, especially with Bluetooth devices.
FAQ
Is Python 3.12 still available in 24.10?
No, Python 3.12 has been removed from the archive. Python 3.13 is the provided version, so you'll need to adjust your scripts or use a virtual environment if you have a hard dependency on 3.12.
Can I upgrade directly from Ubuntu 22.04 LTS to 24.10?
No, direct upgrades from an LTS to a non-LTS release (like 22.04 to 24.10) are not supported. You must first upgrade to the interim release 24.04, and then to 24.10.
What happened to the Ubuntu Pro client on the desktop?
The ubuntu-advantage-tools package is no longer installed by default on desktop images. It's still available in the repository if you need to install it manually for attaching Pro subscriptions.
Are there any known issues with the installer?
The automated installation (autoinstall) may fail if the identity section is missing from your configuration. Always ensure your autoinstall YAML is complete before deploying.
How do I enable the new global search in GNOME?
Click the Activities button in the top-left corner and just start typing. The search feature now scans your applications, files, and contacts without needing to press the Super key first.