Ubuntu 26.04 LTS: Your Upgrade Questions Answered

If you’re considering moving from Ubuntu 24.04 LTS to Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (codenamed Resolute Raccoon), you’re in for a substantial upgrade—two full years of enhancements bundled into one release. This LTS-to-LTS jump isn’t just about what’s new in 26.04; it also sweeps up all improvements from the three interim releases: Ubuntu 24.10, 25.04, and 25.10. The changes span the entire stack—from core system foundations to the desktop environment and applications—and while many features are added, some are also removed. Below, we answer the key questions about what you can expect.

• What are the biggest improvements in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS compared to 24.04?
• Which interim releases contributed to Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?
• What new features does Ubuntu 26.04 LTS introduce?
• What features were dropped in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?
• How does Ubuntu 26.04 LTS improve the desktop experience?
• What are the system requirements for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?
• How do I upgrade from Ubuntu 24.04 LTS to 26.04 LTS?

What are the biggest improvements in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS compared to 24.04?

The most significant changes come from the accumulation of updates across two years. Under the hood, you’ll find a newer Linux kernel (likely 6.x series) with improved hardware support, better power management, and enhanced security. The GNOME desktop environment has been updated to a later version, bringing performance tweaks, smoother animations, and refined settings. Application packages are also fresher—everything from the default browser to system utilities sees version bumps. Perhaps most importantly, the upgrade includes all incremental improvements from the three interim releases, meaning you don’t have to install them separately. However, be aware that some legacy features have been removed, which we cover in question #4.

Which interim releases contributed to Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is the cumulative result of three non-LTS releases that came after 24.04: Ubuntu 24.10 (October 2024), Ubuntu 25.04 (April 2025), and Ubuntu 25.10 (October 2025). Each of these introduced its own set of enhancements—ranging from new kernel versions and security patches to desktop refinements and updated software stacks. By skipping directly from 24.04 to 26.04, you absorb all those changes at once, making the upgrade feel like a massive leap forward. For example, features like the revamped Software Center and improved Wayland support that debuted in 24.10 become part of your 26.04 experience.

What new features does Ubuntu 26.04 LTS introduce?

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS brings several noteworthy additions. The GNOME desktop gets a major version bump, offering a more polished user interface, better multi-monitor support, and a new accent color picker. The Snap package management system sees performance improvements and reduced disk usage. A brand-new firmware updater tool makes it easier to keep BIOS and device firmware current. For developers, updated toolchains including GCC, Python, and Rust are included. Security receives a boost with mandatory file‑system encryption options for new installations. Additionally, the Wayland session becomes the default for all graphics drivers, promising smoother graphics and better security.

What features were dropped in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?

As with any major release, some features have been retired. The most notable removal is Xorg as the default display server—Wayland is now the only option out-of-the-box (though Xorg remains installable). The classic Ubuntu Software Center has been fully replaced by the GNOME Software application. Legacy package formats like Flatpak are no longer pre-configured; users who want them must enable support manually. Additionally, support for 32‑bit (i386) architectures has been dropped for new installations, though existing 32‑bit systems can still upgrade with caution. These changes streamline the OS but may require adjustment if you relied on those older components.

How does Ubuntu 26.04 LTS improve the desktop experience?

The desktop experience in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is noticeably smoother and more modern. GNOME 46 (or later) brings a memory‑efficient redesign, faster search in Activities, and a revamped Settings panel with clearer categories. Multi‑touch gestures are more responsive, and fractional scaling works better on HiDPI displays. The default wallpaper set is refreshed, and the Yaru theme receives subtle but pleasing refinements. File management in Nautilus is snappier due to improved caching. Overall, everyday tasks feel more fluid, and the OS is better optimized for both high‑end and modest hardware.

What are the system requirements for Ubuntu 26.04 LTS?

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS maintains similar hardware requirements to 24.04, but with a few tweaks. Your PC should have at least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB recommended), a 2 GHz dual‑core processor or better, and 25 GB of free disk space for the base installation. Graphics hardware must support OpenGL 3.3 or newer to run the GNOME desktop smoothly. For optimal performance, an SSD is strongly advised. If you’re using very old hardware (pre‑2010), you may find the OS sluggish due to Wayland’s requirements. Notably, 32‑bit (i386) installations are no longer supported for new setups, as mentioned earlier.

How do I upgrade from Ubuntu 24.04 LTS to 26.04 LTS?

Upgrading is straightforward via the Software Updater tool. First, ensure your current 24.04 system is fully updated. Then open Software Updater, click Settings, and under the Updates tab set Notify me of a new Ubuntu version to For any new version. Close settings, run sudo do-release-upgrade -d in the terminal (or wait for the official prompt). The process downloads and installs the new release, during which you’ll be prompted to confirm changes. It typically takes 30–60 minutes. Back up your data before starting. After reboot, you’ll have Ubuntu 26.04 LTS with all your files and apps preserved.