Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux, has given a positive outlook on the release of Linux 6.8, indicating that it is likely to proceed on a regular schedule. Initially considering the possibility of an extra release candidate, Torvalds observed a notable calming down of activities in the seventh release candidate. He expressed satisfaction with the current state, signaling that an eighth release candidate might not be needed. If all goes well without surprises, Linux 6.8 is expected to make its debut next weekend.
The development cycle for Linux 6.8 has seen some discussions about the potential need for additional release candidates. Torvalds prefers seven release candidates for each new kernel release but remains open to extra candidates if necessary. The decision to proceed without an eighth release candidate is influenced by the favorable state of the seventh release candidate, which is smaller than usual at this stage of development. Torvalds, while not providing guarantees, is optimistic that Linux 6.8 will be finalized in the coming week.
Linux 6.8 is anticipated to be significant, as it will serve as the basis for Ubuntu’s next long-term releases. Noteworthy additions to Linux 6.8 include driver support for Intel’s In-Memory Analytics Accelerator, enabling offloading compression and decompression workloads to dedicated features in recent Xeons. Support for some Google Tensor silicon and further developments for the CXL pooled memory standard are also part of the upcoming release. Torvalds highlighted minor outstanding issues, including tweaks to the PowerPC and RISC-V architectures, filesystem fixes, core networking updates, and networking selftest enhancements.
