Ubuntu quietly releases point updates for version 24.04.3, dubbed Noble Numbat
Ubuntu 24.04.3 Released: New Point Release Brings Hardware Compatibility Improvements
Ubuntu has announced the release of the latest point update for its long-term support (LTS) version, Ubuntu 24.04.3, also known as "Noble Numbat". This update, which follows the initial release in late April 2023 and the 24.04.1 point release, marks a significant step forward in hardware compatibility and support.
The new version refreshes thousands of device drivers included with the operating system. Specifically, it includes updates to QEMU, Grub, and NetworkManager. These updates aim to improve system performance and stability.
One of the key features of Ubuntu LTS releases is the Hardware Enablement (HWE) stack. Starting from the second point release of an LTS version, the HWE stack is included, which backports newer Linux kernels and graphics drivers from subsequent interim Ubuntu releases to the existing LTS base.
For Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the HWE stack is included starting from the 24.04.2 release. This means that Ubuntu 24.04.3 includes Linux kernel 6.14 and Mesa 25.0.x graphics, which were from Ubuntu 25.04, to aid hardware compatibility, especially with newer devices.
In addition, the release includes updates for the bootloader used on RISC-V hardware. It also offers a new version of snapd, 2.68.5, and comes with LibreOffice 24.8.7 and Firefox 141.
The point releases serve two purposes: they're both update roll-ups and they're also newer install media for the latest hardware. This means that users can install Ubuntu 24.04.3 on new systems without worrying about compatibility issues.
It's worth noting that about 95 per cent of Ubuntu users stick to the LTS releases. This pattern is typical across Ubuntu LTS releases, where HWE stacks begin at the 2nd point release and continue for the LTS lifetime, enabling newer hardware support over time.
The release also includes multiple updates to GNOME, including to Mutter, Nautilus, Gtk4, and Pipewire. These updates aim to improve the overall user experience and performance of the desktop environment.
In summary, the Ubuntu 24.04.3 release includes a substantial list of fixes, updates to essential system components, and improvements to hardware compatibility. This update is a testament to Ubuntu's commitment to providing a stable, secure, and up-to-date operating system for its users.
| LTS Point Release | HWE Stack Included? | Kernel Source | |-------------------|-------------------------------|---------------------------------------| | 24.04 (initial) | No (original kernel only) | Kernel from 24.04 release | | 24.04.1 | No (original kernel only) | Same kernel as 24.04 | | 24.04.2 and later | Yes (with updated HWE kernel) | Backported kernel from next interim release (e.g., 25.04 for 24.04.3) |
Software updates in Ubuntu 24.04.3, the latest point release, extend beyond just hardware compatibility improvements. The update also includes advances in networking as NetworkManager is included, aiming to improve system performance and stability. Moreover, the revised version of snapd, 2.68.5, could be seen as a move towards enhancing the overall software infrastructure of the system. Lastly, artificial intelligence may also benefit from this update as it comes with Firefox 141, which has further developments in AI-powered features.
