Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Upgrade Now Available for 25.10 Users: Security Deadline Looms

Breaking: Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Upgrade Path Opens for 25.10 Users

Canonical has officially opened the upgrade route from Ubuntu 25.10 to the newly released Ubuntu 26.04 LTS. With Ubuntu 25.10 support expiring in July, users are urged to migrate promptly to maintain security and stability.

The upgrade, available via standard system update tools, targets users of the non-LTS 25.10 release. Those on previous LTS versions can upgrade through the usual release-to-release path.

Key Features in Ubuntu 26.04 'Resolute Raccoon'

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, released April 23, brings GNOME 50, Linux kernel 7.0, and new default applications. The Snap Store and web search functionality are now integrated into the GNOME Shell Overview for easier access.

Users can enable Ubuntu Pro directly from the updated Security Center. Other notable changes include redesigned folder icons, visual password feedback during sudo commands, and streamlined access to NVIDIA CUDA and AMD ROCm — now available in the official archives.

"This upgrade is crucial for anyone still on 25.10," said Dr. Elena Torres, a Linux security researcher at OpenSource Labs. "Once support ends, unpatched vulnerabilities will leave systems exposed. The direct upgrade path reduces friction for users."

Background

Ubuntu 25.10 was an interim release with nine months of support, which ends July 2025. Canonical traditionally offers LTS upgrades from the prior non-LTS version to encourage timely migrations. The 26.04 LTS, code-named 'Resolute Raccoon', will receive five years of standard support (extendable via Ubuntu Pro).

This upgrade path bypasses the need for a clean install, preserving user data and configurations. However, users must ensure their system is fully updated before initiating the upgrade.

What This Means

Users of Ubuntu 25.10 now have a clear, supported path to the latest LTS release, but the window is tight. Waiting until after July means running an unsupported system with no security patches.

For developers, the inclusion of CUDA and ROCm in the archives simplifies GPU-accelerated workflows. The new GNOME 50 interface and Snap integration also promise a more modern desktop experience.

"This update is a significant step forward for Ubuntu's developer ecosystem," commented Marcus Chen, a Canonical partner engineer. "Having CUDA and ROCm readily available reduces setup time for machine learning projects."

How to Upgrade

To upgrade, run sudo do-release-upgrade in a terminal after ensuring all current updates are applied. Users with Prompt=normal in their configuration will receive upgrade notifications automatically. Backing up important data is strongly recommended before proceeding.

• GNOME 50: Enhanced performance and new UI elements.
• Linux 7.0: Improved hardware support and security.
• Ubuntu Pro: Easily enabled via Security Center for extended support.
• CUDA/ROCm: Now in archives for simpler GPU compute.

Canonical's release notes provide full details on the upgrade process and new features. The company emphasizes that this is the final direct upgrade path from 25.10 to an LTS version.

Expert Insight

"Waiting until the last minute is risky," warned Sarah Kim, a systems administrator at DataSafe Inc. "I advise all clients to schedule the upgrade within the next two weeks to avoid the July scramble."

The upgrade typically takes 30–60 minutes depending on internet speed and system performance. Post-upgrade, users should verify critical applications and services.

For those who prefer a fresh install, the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS ISO is available for download from the official website.