Linux developer Linus Torvalds has released the Linux 6.19 stable kernel, marking the first major release of 2026. This new kernel includes significant improvements for older AMD GPUs and Intel processors. The AMD GCN 1.0 / GCN 1.1 dGPUs now default to the AMDGPU driver, providing better performance and RADV compatibility out-of-the-box. Additionally, Intel’s Wildcat Lake and Nova Lake platforms have received enablement work, with new features like Linear Address Space Separation (LASS) and Content Adaptive Sharpness Filter (CASF).
The Linux 6.19 kernel also brings the DRM Color Pipeline API backed by Valve, which enhances video rendering capabilities. Furthermore, various file-system improvements, ASUS Armoury, and Uniwill platform drivers are included in this release.
Although Linux 6.19 had some initial performance issues, these have been resolved in time for the release. The next kernel cycle, expected to be known as Linux 7.0, is already underway and promises exciting changes. This new kernel will power Ubuntu 26.04 LTS in spring 2026. You can download Linux 6.19 from kernel.org for custom builds.
Source: https://www.phoronix.com/news/Linux-6.19-Released