Ubuntu 25.10 May Ship with an "Unstable" Linux Kernel

darwinmac writes: Ubuntu 25.10 “Questing Quokka” may launch using a kernel still marked as a release candidate (RC) rather than a final stable version. That’s because the kernel freeze is set for September 25, 2025, while Linux 6.17 is only expected to go stable shortly afterward. According to OMG! Ubuntu, the Canonical Kernel Team is proceeding with the assumption of shipping that RC version unless conditions change.

"The Kernel Team are announcing that Ubuntu 25.10 will potentially be an Unstable Release from the perspective of the kernel and will be henceforth working with that assumption until such time as conditions warrant a change." – Brett Grandbois, Canonical Engineer

Users may get the intended stable kernel later via updates. For most, the impact should be minor.