Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Upgrade Now Available for 25.10 Users: What's New

Introduction

Good news for Ubuntu enthusiasts: the upgrade path from Ubuntu 25.10 to the latest long-term support release, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, has been officially opened as of May 14, 2026. While the new LTS version launched over a month ago, users on the intermediate release can now seamlessly transition to benefit from its enhanced features. This upgrade brings a wealth of improvements, including a refreshed desktop environment, updated kernel, and better hardware support—all under the codename 'Resolute Raccoon'.

What's New in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS 'Resolute Raccoon'

GNOME 50 and Linux 7.0

The most notable changes come from the integration of GNOME 50, the latest version of the popular desktop environment. This update introduces refined visual elements, smoother animations, and improved multitasking capabilities. Combined with Linux kernel 7.0, users can expect better performance, enhanced hardware compatibility, and updated drivers. The kernel also brings optimizations for newer processors and graphics cards, making the system more responsive for both desktop and server workloads.

New Default Apps and Snap Integration

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS ships with a refreshed set of default applications designed for modern workflows. The Snap package manager has been further integrated into the GNOME overview, allowing users to search for and launch Snap apps directly from the activities screen. Additionally, the overview now supports web searching, enabling you to find online results without opening a browser. This unification streamlines your workflow by keeping everything accessible from one place.

Enhanced Security with Ubuntu Pro

Security gets a boost with the Security Center now featuring easy activation of Ubuntu Pro. Ubuntu Pro provides extended security maintenance (ESM) for critical packages, compliance tools, and automated patching. By enabling it directly from the Security Center, users can safeguard their systems against vulnerabilities without manual configuration. This is especially valuable for enterprise deployments or anyone requiring a hardened environment.

Visual Updates: Folder Icons and Sudo Feedback

The 'Resolute Raccoon' codename comes with a fresh set of folder icons that give the file manager a modern, cohesive look. These icons are designed to be more distinctive, making it easier to identify different directories at a glance. Another subtle but practical change is the addition of password feedback for sudo commands. When you type your password in the terminal, visual feedback (such as asterisks) is now displayed, reducing errors and improving usability—a long-requested feature for many users.

Hardware Acceleration: CUDA and ROCm via APT

For developers and researchers, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS simplifies access to NVIDIA CUDA and AMD ROCm toolkits. Both are now installable via the standard apt install command, eliminating the need for third-party repositories or manual downloads. This integration ensures that GPU-accelerated computing is just a terminal command away, supporting applications in machine learning, scientific simulation, and content creation.

How to Upgrade from Ubuntu 25.10

Upgrading is straightforward. Ensure your system is fully updated (sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade), then run sudo do-release-upgrade. The upgrade process will guide you through the steps, including confirming changes and managing third-party repositories. It's recommended to back up important data before proceeding, especially for production machines. After the upgrade, verify the new version with lsb_release -a.

Conclusion

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS offers a compelling upgrade for users coming from 25.10. With GNOME 50, Linux 7.0, enhanced Snap integration, improved security, and simplified GPU toolkit access, this release balances innovation with reliability. Whether you're a casual user or a developer, the 'Resolute Raccoon' provides a solid foundation for the next few years. Don't wait—start your upgrade today and explore the new capabilities firsthand.