Ubuntu's Stealthy Point Release 24.04.3 for Version 24.04 is Released Softly

Ubuntu's Stealthy Point Release 24.04.3 for Version 24.04 is Released Softly

In a significant update, Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS has been released, offering a host of improvements and new features. This long-term support (LTS) version, codenamed "Noble Numbat," was launched in late April last year, and according to Ubuntu's own statement, about 95% of Ubuntu users stick to the LTS releases.

The latest update comes with several notable changes. For instance, there are updates to GNOME, including improvements to the Mutter window manager and compositor, as well as the Nautilus file manager. Users can now enjoy LibreOffice 24.8.7 and Firefox 141 out of the box.

One of the key highlights of this release is the inclusion of an updated Hardware Enablement (HWE) stack. This update features Linux kernel 6.14, backported from Ubuntu 25.04, and the Mesa 25.0 graphics stack. These updates aim to improve hardware compatibility, particularly for newer CPUs, GPUs, and peripherals.

The enhancements target both desktop and specialized hardware use cases. The update adds the THC driver, which boosts touchscreen and touchpad support on modern Intel laptops. It also offers performance boosts for playing Windows games under Linux via Wine or Proton, and Microsoft “Copilot” key support, among other improvements.

The HWE stacks are a part of Ubuntu's point release cycle. They update the kernel and graphics stack periodically by backporting components from interim Ubuntu releases, such as from 25.04, to provide newer hardware support and improved performance while maintaining long-term stability. This means users receive updated kernels and drivers through HWE updates roughly with point releases like 24.04.2, 24.04.3, and so on.

In addition to the HWE updates, Ubuntu 24.04.3 includes security updates, bug fixes for installation reliability (especially on RISC-V devices), GNOME improvements (such as fixes for Nautilus crashes and Mutter Wayland stability), and better audio handling with PipeWire. There are also updates to QEMU, Grub, and NetworkManager in the latest release, as well as a new version of snapd, 2.68.5.

Updates to Gtk4 improve the handling of Unicode emoji and integration with the Orca screen reader. Moreover, the release includes updates for the bootloader used on RISC-V hardware.

In summary, Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS offers a new kernel (Linux 6.14), a graphics stack (Mesa 25.0), numerous improvements, and a regular point release cycle for HWE, extending hardware enablement and security over the long-term support period. This update is ideal for users who want a stable, supported LTS environment with current hardware enablement and security support.

1. The Hardware Enablement (HWE) stack in Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS includes Linux kernel 6.14, which aims to improve hardware compatibility for newer CPUs, GPUs, and peripherals.
2. The latest update also features Cloud and AI integration, as users can now enjoy Microsoft "Copilot" key support, improving productivity for cloud-based tasks and AI-driven workflows.
3. Beyond the HWE updates, this release includes advancements in Networking technology, with improvements to QEMU, Grub, and NetworkManager, ensuring seamless connectivity for users worldwide.

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