Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS Released with Linux Kernel 6.8

The fifth and final point release to Ubuntu 22.04 LTS is now available to download.

This update was due to be released a couple of weeks ago but was delayed by a delay in getting Ubuntu 24.04.1 LTS out the door – something had to give, so the release date of this update slipped.

But it’s here now, ready to download.

Ubuntu 24.04.5 LTS brings a freshly-spun installer image (ISO) that includes all of the software, security, and stability updates released since the last ISO was made. This cuts down on the number of updates that have to downloaded after installing the OS. 

A new HWE stack is also included, so this installer boots Linux kernel 6.8 by default and ships with a newer set of graphics drivers than that the last ISO, both back ported from the newest Ubuntu 24.04 LTS release.

All of Ubuntu’s favours that opt-in to long-term support also get refreshed media, so Xubuntu 22.04.5 LTS, Ubuntu Kylin 22.04.5 LTS, Ubuntu Studio 22.04.5 LTS, et al are also out.

Already use Ubuntu 22.04 LTS?

Well, don’t fret; you don’t need to download the new point release ISO and do a fresh install to get any of the fixes, or app updates included.

And the Linux kernel 6.8 and newer graphics driver stack has already rolled to existing users as standard software updates — go run Software Manager to get ’em, if you haven’t already!

Although this is the final planned point release in the ‘Jammy Jellyfish’ series ongoing support does not end any time soon. Ubuntu 22.04 is supported until 2027 on the desktop, with security coverage beyond that date provided via Ubuntu Pro.

But you can upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS from 22.04 LTS at any point — the critical bug blocker that led to direct upgrades being dramatically paused last week has, I’m pleased to report, been resolved.