The Ubuntu team has announced the Beta release of Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Long-Term Support), encompassing a diverse array of products including Desktop, Server, and Cloud solutions.

Ubuntu 24.04 Noble Numbat BETA featured image

Dubbed “Noble Numbat”, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS represents a continuation of the Ubuntu tradition, integrating cutting-edge open-source technologies within a user-friendly Linux distribution renowned for its quality. The development team has dedicated significant effort throughout this cycle to introduce novel features while diligently addressing any bugs encountered.

This Beta release encompasses not only the core Ubuntu Desktop, Server, and Cloud offerings but also includes an extensive range of flavors catering to various user preferences and needs, such as Edubuntu, Kubuntu, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie, Ubuntu Cinnamon, UbuntuKylin, Ubuntu MATE, Ubuntu Studio, Ubuntu Unity, and Xubuntu.

The Beta images have undergone rigorous testing and are deemed to be relatively free from critical image build or installer issues. They provide a snapshot of Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, reflecting the features intended for the final release slated for April 25, 2024.

Key Highlights:

  • GNOME 46
  • Ubuntu 24.04 LTS brings the new 6.x Linux kernel series that offers better hardware compatibility.
  • Updated toolchain includes GCC 14, Python 3.12, and OpenJKD 21.
  • The Ubuntu Installer reintroduces support for ZFS guided installation.
  • Ubuntu 24.04 introduces a Ubuntu App Center replacing the previous Snap Store. The application has been written from scratch using the Flutter toolkit.
  • A new standalone Firmware Updater application available for both amd64 and arm64.

Upgrade Instructions:

Downloads:

As development progresses towards the final release, ongoing fixes and improvements will be integrated into subsequent images. Any bugs identified during this Beta phase should be promptly reported against the relevant packages or to the cloud-images project on Launchpad.

Comprehensive release notes for Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Beta can be accessed here.

Flavor-Specific Beta Releases:

Regular daily images for Ubuntu and all flavors are available for download here.

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Beta represents a significant step forward in the evolution of Ubuntu and its affiliated flavors, offering users an early opportunity to experience and contribute to the refinement of this highly anticipated release.