New year, new release - Kali 2026.1 is here! There is everything from a fresh coat of paint to a nod to our roots, with normal ongoing improvements.
Building on from December’s 2025.4, the summary of the changelog:

2026 Theme Refresh - Our yearly theme refresh
BackTrack Mode For Kali-Undercover - New mode celebrating BackTrack’s 20th anniversary
Kali’s 13th Birthday Event - A little community event
New Tools - 8 new programs


2026 Theme Refresh

As with previous 20xx.1 releases, this major update brings our annual theme refresh, a long-standing tradition that keeps the Kali Linux interface as modern and innovative. This year’s release unveils a brand-new theme from the moment you boot. Everything from the boot menu, installer to the login display, and a fresh set of desktop wallpapers.

Kali Linux

Kali Linux 2026.1 is out, bringing the annual 2026 theme refresh covering boot menu, installer, login screen, and new wallpapers. A standout addition is BackTrack Mode for kali-undercover, celebrating BackTrack Linux's 20th anniversary by recreating the look of BackTrack 5. Eight new security tools were added including AdaptixC2, MetasploitMCP, XSStrike, and GEF. The kernel is bumped to 6.18. NetHunter updates include Android 16 support for Redmi Note 8, wireless injection fixes for Qualcomm chipsets, and wardriving improvements for Samsung S10. Known issue: GNU Radio ecosystem tools are broken in this release and expected to be fixed next cycle.

Kali Linux 2026.1 Release (2026 Theme & BackTrack Mode)