Linus Torvalds has released the Linux 6.6-rc4 as the latest test version for the upcoming kernel release. The kernel is expected to be stable and ready for release by the end of October. Torvalds described it as a fairly small release, with no notable issues or odd occurrences. The GPU changes are also minimal, and both driver subsystems are said to be quiet. The release includes a mix of miscellaneous fixes, driver updates, architecture fixes, tooling and documentation improvements, and fixes for filesystems and core kernel issues.
This week’s notable fixes include adding support for Intel Arrow Lake NPU through a new PCI ID, and the mitigation of AMD Zen 1 derived Hygon CPUs for Inception/SRSO vulnerabilities. Linux 6.6 is anticipated to have a range of exciting new features and is set to be officially released by the end of October or early November, depending on the progress of the release cycle. If things go smoothly, the release is expected on October 29.
In summary, Linux 6.6-rc4 is a small test release with no significant issues reported. The release includes various fixes and updates for drivers, architecture, tooling, and filesystems. Exciting new features are expected in the final Linux 6.6 release, which is scheduled for the end of October or early November. Notable fixes for this test release include support for Intel Arrow Lake NPU and the mitigation of vulnerabilities for AMD Zen 1 derived Hygon CPUs.