Get ready, Linux enthusiasts! Ubuntu 26.04, codenamed 'Resolute Raccoon,' is already in the works, and it's shaping up to be a major release. As a Long-Term Support (LTS) version, this one's especially crucial as we dive deeper into the world of Wayland. Let's dive into what we know so far about the release schedule and the exciting new features coming your way.
Since this is a work in progress, and the final version drops in April 2026, I'll be keeping this article updated as new developments emerge. So, check back for the latest!
Ubuntu 26.04 Release Schedule
Mark your calendars! Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is slated for release on April 23, 2026. Here's a look at the key milestones:
- February 19: Feature Freeze
- March 12: User Interface Freeze
- March 19: Kernel Feature Freeze
- March 26: Beta Release
- April 9: Kernel Freeze
- April 16: Release Candidate
- April 23: Final Release
Note: This schedule is subject to change as development progresses, but the final release date should remain the same.
Fun Fact: Did you know Ubuntu releases always land on a Thursday? For the October releases (versions ending in .10), it's the second Thursday of the month. For the April releases (versions ending in .04), it's the fourth Thursday. Those extra two weeks in April are to account for the Christmas holidays.
New Features in Ubuntu 26.04 'Resolute Raccoon'
Keep in mind that since it's early in development, some of these features could shift before the final release.
GNOME 50
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS will undoubtedly feature the latest GNOME version at the time of its release, which will be GNOME 50. What exactly GNOME 50 will bring is still unfolding, with more details expected as we head into 2026. Be prepared to see some of your classic GNOME apps potentially replaced with modern versions – a trend we've seen before with changes to the default text editor, document viewer, and terminal.
New Default Video Player
For as long as many can remember, Totem has been Ubuntu's go-to video player. However, a new player, Showtime, is making waves. Showtime aligns perfectly with the new GNOME design principles, known as libadwaita. It offers a sleek, modern feel with a minimalist interface, but you still have control options. You can access settings by clicking the gear icon or right-clicking anywhere in the player.
Showtime is simply referred to as 'Video Player,' and its icon is similar to Totem (referred to as 'Videos') in the screenshot.
New Default System Monitor
GNOME 50 will also introduce a new default system monitor called Resources. This is a bit of a surprise, as Resources isn't a core GNOME app, though it's a GNOME Circle app, meaning it's a community-created tool that meets GNOME standards. Although the current system monitor is not that bad in my opinion.
x86-64-v3 and amd64v3 Variants for All Packages
Ubuntu 26.04 will include amd64v3 / x86-64-v3 variants for all packages, and they will be thoroughly tested. While some packages are already available in this format in the recently released Ubuntu 25.10, the LTS release will feature all packages in this variant.
So, what exactly is x86-64-v3? You're likely familiar with x86-64 and amd64 – the 64-bit architectures for Intel and AMD CPUs, respectively, which have been around for nearly two decades. But here's where it gets controversial... Not all 64-bit processors are created equal. Newer CPUs support more instruction sets than their predecessors, leading to the v2/v3/v4 architecture variants. Basically, if you have a newer CPU, you can switch to the v3 variants of the packages and potentially see performance improvements. Don't worry, the v3 variant won't be the default, so there's no need to fret if you're rocking an older machine.
Ubuntu prides itself on being one of the most compatible Linux distributions. Compatibility is often a trade-off against cutting-edge performance.
Download Ubuntu 26.04 (for Testing Purposes Only!)
Important Warning: This is a development release and not suitable for your primary machine. Only download and install it if you're willing to help with testing. Use it in a virtual machine or on a spare system with no important data. You've been warned!
The first monthly snapshot of the Ubuntu 26.04 development release is now available for those eager to test it. If you do test it, be sure to report any bugs promptly – otherwise, what's the point of testing?
What Are Your Expectations?
This is a Long Term Support release, and expectations are high. What features are you hoping to see in this upcoming version? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Are you excited about the new video player? Do you think the new system monitor is a good move? Let us know what you think!
About the Author
Abhishek Prakash created It's FOSS 13 years ago to share his Linux adventures. He has a Master's degree in Engineering and years of experience in the IT industry. He's also a huge fan of Agatha Christie detective mysteries.
