Work has begun on the new long-term support version of Ubuntu, one of the world’s most popular Linux distributions. Development has begun on Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, and the codename for this version has been confirmed as “Resolute Raccoon.” The fact that it will offer long-term support (LTS) and will be released during the Linux ecosystem’s full transition to Wayland technology makes this release a critical step for the technology world.

A new era in the Linux world: What will Ubuntu 26.04 LTS offer?

The stable release of the highly anticipated operating system is scheduled for April 23, 2026. In keeping with Ubuntu’s traditional release schedule, April releases are typically released on the fourth Thursday of the month. Before this date is reached, important milestones such as the feature freeze in February 2026 and the beta release in March will be completed.

The most significant interface innovation in the new version will be the GNOME 50 desktop environment. This interface, still in development, is expected to bring changes to familiar default applications. In particular, the long-used video player Totem is expected to be replaced by the Showtime application, which has a more modern and stylish design. Showtime stands out with its minimalist design and adherence to the libadwaita design language.

System management tools are also being targeted for radical changes. The current system monitor is slated to be replaced by a new application called Resources. A community project, Resources aims to monitor system resources through a more modern interface, with a structure that meets GNOME standards.

The most striking detail for performance enthusiasts will be the processor architecture. Ubuntu 26.04 will offer x86-64-v3 and amd64v3 variants for all packages. This feature will allow users with newer-generation processors to achieve higher performance from their hardware. However, those with older computers need not worry; the standard versions will remain the default.

Because this is still early in the development process, it’s important to note that the test versions currently available for download are not suitable for everyday use and may contain bugs. These versions should only be tested on virtual machines for testing purposes. What are your thoughts on the future of Ubuntu and these planned new features, and what are your expectations?