The Linux community is gearing up for the release of version 6.12 of the Linux kernel. Currently in the "release candidate" phase, 6.12rc1 was made available on September 29, 2024. While this release may not bring sweeping changes, it does include some compelling features that demonstrate the ongoing evolution of this robust operating system.
The Linux 6.x kernel has distinguished itself with its support for real-time capabilities and kernel scheduling, setting it apart from its predecessors, the 4.x and 5.x implementations.
Kernel 4.x (released in 2015) introduced power management and performance enhancements, along with support for ARM processors and enhanced security features. Kernel 5.x (released in 2019) further improved CPU scheduling, added support for more modern hardware, and expanded power efficiency capabilities. Kernel 6.x (released in 2022) marked a significant step forward with the introduction of Rust support, extensive CPU support for newer Intel processors, and support for Apple M1 and AMD processors. These three recent kernel versions underscore a consistent commitment to keeping pace with hardware innovations, bolstering security, increasing efficiency and power management, and refining kernel performance and scheduling.
The "rc1" status signifies that no new features will be added at this stage, and the focus is on implementing necessary fixes. These release candidates have undergone rigorous testing, putting them in a pre-release state as the final bugs and modifications are addressed.
The majority of the kernel 6.12rc1 capabilities revolve around driver updates, accounting for about 55% of the changes. This release incorporates two significant enhancements and incremental improvements to existing functionality. While these changes might not seem groundbreaking, they represent substantial and practical progress.
Two Notable New Features
Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux, highlights two primary features in the official announcement of kernel 6.12rc1. The first is a notable improvement in real-time application support, and the second is enhanced kernel scheduling.
Support for Real-time Computing with PREEMPT_RT
Real-time capabilities impose strict time constraints on the system, ensuring a defined time frame between an event and its corresponding response. This feature is crucial for supporting time-sensitive applications, marking a substantial step forward for the kernel. Arguably the more critical aspect of the new release, this feature has been hampered by a kernel logging component, a challenge that has now been overcome. While real-time computing features have been available in distributions like Ubuntu, this is the first time this capability has been integrated into the mainline kernel.
New Kernel Scheduling with sched_ext
Continuing the trend of performance and efficiency enhancements seen in kernels 4.x, 5.x, and 6.x, the new sched_ext scheduler enables schedule loading using eBPF programs. These programs execute in sandboxed environments, expanding kernel capabilities without modifying the original code.
Beyond the Headlines: Additional Features
Device driver updates for various features, including USB and Thunderbolt, constitute the majority of this release (approximately 55%). However, other significant improvements are present across a range of components.
Enhanced Rust Support
Linux began supporting the use of Rust for kernel development with the 6.1 version. The 6.12rc1 release further enhances this integration. Rust and C remain the two primary kernel development languages, although Rust support is still relatively limited at this point. Expect to see continuous improvements in Rust support in the subsequent kernel versions as maintainers continue to incorporate it.
Kernel Panic QR Codes
The new kernel introduces the optional ability to display a QR code for kernel panic events, providing detailed information that can be easily captured and stored on a smartphone or similar device. This is a prime example of a new kernel feature written in Rust. It's important to note that this feature is disabled by default.
Architectural Improvements
RC1 includes enhancements across common architectures. The additional support for x86 and ARM processors is likely to be of particular interest. The aforementioned real-time integration further contributes to overall CPU improvements.
Processor Support for Raspberry Pi 5 and Snapdragon X1
The new kernel provides native support for the Broadcom BCM2712-based Raspberry Pi 5. This foundational support sets the stage for further advancements in future kernel versions. Additionally, support is extended to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X1 processor, found in various platforms.
A Comprehensive Overview
Linus Torvalds estimates that approximately 55% of the release is dedicated to driver updates, with another 5% allocated for documentation and 10% for tooling. The remaining 25% focuses on significant changes, including PREEMPT_RT, sched_ext, and other improvements mentioned above. In total, this release comprises over 11,000 commits from around 1700 different contributors.
Kernel 6.12 is expected to remain in various release candidate versions throughout October and November, with a full release likely around the beginning of December. As always, the latest (and archived) kernel releases are available on the kernel.org website.
Should You Upgrade?
The decision to upgrade primarily depends on whether you require a specific feature enhancement and your tolerance for frequent kernel changes over the next couple of months. Most Linux users and administrators should remain on the current stable kernel 6.11.2 version for the time being. However, if you develop time-sensitive applications, rely heavily on the latest drivers, or are a power user of the Raspberry Pi 5, the new kernel might hold enough appeal to warrant integration.
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