The latest long-term support release featuring enhancements in real-time computing, expanded hardware compatibility, networking improvements, and advanced file system capabilities.
Linux Kernel 6.12, now officially released as a Long-Term Support (LTS) version, guarantees updates and support until 2026. This version introduces a host of improvements, spanning real-time computing, enhanced hardware support, networking capabilities, and file system upgrades, making it a significant milestone for Linux enthusiasts and enterprise users alike.
A standout feature in Linux 6.12 is the integration of the PREEMPT_RT real-time patchset, a decade-long development effort aimed at optimizing task response times and enhancing overall system performance. This makes the kernel more suited for enterprise-grade real-time applications, with compatibility extended to ARM64, RISC-V, and X86/X86_64 architectures.
The kernel brings significant upgrades for hardware platforms:
- AMD: Adds RDNA 4 GPU support, OverDrive overclocking for SMU 14.x, and enhanced functionality for Instinct accelerators.
- Intel: Includes support for Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake processors, improvements for hybrid P/E-core configurations, and early enablement for Panther Lake and Diamond Rapids Xeon processors.
- NVIDIA: Implements virtual command queue support for SMMUv3.
Linux 6.12 enhances networking with Device Memory TCP (DMTCP) for zero-copy TCP payload reception, IPv6 IOAM6 with tunsrc encap mode support, and PTP timestamps with MONOTONIC_RAW for precise synchronization.
New drivers include support for Microchip PIC64GX, NXP i.MX8ULP, Rockchip RK3568 CAN-FD controllers, Realtek automotive PCIe devices, and more. Updates also cover external hardware monitors and other critical peripherals.
The release introduces file-backed mount support for the EROFS file system, LoongArch KVM guest PMU support, enhanced Android guest capabilities, memory protection with ARM permission overlay, and integration with the latest Rust updates. Comprehensive documentation updates and bug fixes further improve stability.
Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux, confirmed the stable release, stating, “No strange surprises this last week, so we’re sticking to the regular release schedule. The merge window opens tomorrow.” With over two dozen pull requests already queued, the release underscores active community engagement.
