Linux 6.18 LTS release – Main changes, Arm, RISC-V, and MIPS architectures - CNX Software

Abstract

The Linux 6.18 kernel has been officially designated as a Long Term Support (LTS) release, signaling extended maintenance and stability for diverse hardware platforms. This version introduces key changes and optimizations specifically tailored for the Arm, MIPS, and emerging RISC-V architectures. The focus on architectural enhancement solidifies the kernel's readiness for deployment across various embedded and enterprise systems.

Report

Key Highlights

• The Linux 6.18 kernel has achieved Long Term Support (LTS) status, ensuring extended stability, security patching, and maintenance.
• Significant architectural improvements and driver updates are included for critical non-x86 platforms: Arm, MIPS, and RISC-V.
• The release integrates core feature updates, enhancing performance and stability across these diverse hardware ecosystems.

Technical Details

• RISC-V Support: Enhanced kernel support likely includes optimizations for specific RISC-V International Standard Architecture (ISA) extensions and improved device tree support for new SoCs.
• Arm Architectures: Updates generally focus on improved power management, support for newer high-performance CPU clusters, and integration of new platform drivers.
• MIPS Architectures: The release continues maintenance and driver updates, preserving compatibility for legacy and specific embedded applications.
• LTS Status: This designation guarantees backporting of critical security fixes and bug patches for a significantly longer duration than standard releases.

Implications

• Boosting RISC-V Adoption: Inclusion in an LTS kernel version validates the stability and maturity of the RISC-V architecture, encouraging commercial and enterprise adoption of RISC-V hardware.
• Reduced Fragmentation: Strong mainline kernel support reduces the necessity for vendors to maintain highly customized, downstream kernel versions, simplifying the software stack for RISC-V developers.
• Long-Term Deployment: The LTS status makes Linux 6.18 the preferred kernel base for industrial control systems, networking gear, and other products requiring high stability and long operational lifetimes on Arm and RISC-V platforms.