It’s Official: Linux Kernel 6.12 Will Be LTS, Supported for “Multiple Years”
Linux kernel 6.12 was released on November 17th, 2024, and introduces new features like real-time “PREEMPT_RT” support, a new scheduler called sched_ext, and DRM panic messages as QR codes, as well as numerous new and updated drivers for better hardware support.
And, the great news I want to share with you today is that Linux 6.12 has been included in the list of long-term release kernels and will receive maintenance updates with bug and security fixes at least until December 2026.
Late update (by Roy)
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Linux 6.12 gets the Long Term Support treatment
Linux’s latest kernel, version 6.12, has turned out to be an LTS version. That means there will be at least two years of support, not just the regular four months.
This period may be extended if the Linux 6.12 kernel proves popular, such as for deployment within operating systems for critical purposes. The LTS (Long Term Support) designation means that bug and security fixes will be released for this kernel over the next two years.
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Linux 6.12 kernel received official LTS status for at least 2 years
Lead developer Greg Kroah-Gartman has announced that the Linux 6.12 kernel has officially received LTS (Long Term Support) status. This version will be supported for at least two years. This was reported by 9to5Linux.
Linux 6.12 was released on November 17, 2024. The kernel has new features such as real-time support for “PREEMPT_RT”, a new scheduler called sched_ext, and the ability to display DRM panic messages as QR codes. Also, in version 6.12, numerous drivers have been added and updated to improve compatibility with hardware.
The Register:
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Linux 6.12 is the new long term supported kernel
Last month's new version of the Linux kernel, 6.12, has been confirmed as the newest LTS release… which also marks the end of the line for kernel 4.19.
Kernel version 6.12 was released on November 17, and at the end of last week, without any fanfare, it also became the latest long term supported version – as confirmed by Phoronix.
Linux kernel 6.12 is an interesting release. Perhaps the biggest change is that This version finally sees the completion of the process of incorporating the patches to make the kernel capable of real-time operation. Labelled PREEMPT_RT, these started development 20 years ago, and for a couple of years they've been used in the special Ubuntu Real-time edition.
The previous step in taking them mainstream was merging the locking code, which went in to kernel 5.15 in 2021.) This latest merge makes it possible to enable both hard and soft real-time behaviour in the kernel.