Linux Kernel 6.12 Has Landed – and It's a Big One

Linux Kernel 6.12 has been released, marking a significant update with numerous new features and improvements. The most notable addition is the mainline support for PREEMPT_RT, which enhances the performance of real-time applications by allowing kernel processes to be pre-emptible. This feature, which has been in development since 2005, is now available for various architectures including Intel, AMD, ARM, and RISC-V. Another key feature is the introduction of sched_ext, a scheduler class that utilizes BPF programs to define scheduling behavior, potentially improving performance for gaming applications. The update also includes enhancements to filesystems, such as XFS support for larger block sizes and improved NFS capabilities. Additionally, Linux 6.12 introduces support for a range of new devices, including the Raspberry Pi 5 and various ARM-powered devices, while also improving compatibility for Wacom tablets and several laptop models. Other changes include new security and performance fixes, as well as support for new Rust modules. Users can upgrade to Linux Kernel 6.12 through various methods, including compiling from source or using third-party PPAs. The upcoming Ubuntu 25.04 will default to Linux kernel 6.14, with back-ports planned for LTS users.

- Linux Kernel 6.12 introduces mainline support for PREEMPT_RT for real-time applications.

- New scheduler class sched_ext allows for customizable scheduling behavior using BPF programs.

- Enhanced filesystem support includes improvements for XFS and NFS.

- Expanded hardware support includes the Raspberry Pi 5 and various ARM devices.

- Users can upgrade through source compilation or third-party PPAs, with future Ubuntu versions set to include the kernel.