Ubuntu 26.04, codenamed ‘Resolute Raccoon’, has officially commenced its development cycle with the release of Snapshot 1. Available for download now, this marks the first of five planned monthly development snapshots leading to the stable LTS release set for April 23, 2026.
Snapshot 1 primarily focuses on low-level package updates and tooling adjustments. While this initial release does not yet incorporate the major features planned for the final version, it sets the groundwork for exciting advancements expected in future snapshots. Anticipated updates include new desktop applications such as the Showtime video player and the Resources system monitor, an expanded App Center with DEB/APT management capabilities, and the Prompting Client for Snaps.
Significantly, Ubuntu 26.04 will introduce GNOME 50 and transition towards a Wayland-only Linux desktop environment, signaling a shift in its graphical interface approach. Additionally, performance improvements are on the horizon with the introduction of x86-64-v3/amd64v3 package variants geared towards newer CPU architectures.
The snapshot release schedule outlines a feature freeze set for February 19, 2026, followed by a beta release on March 26, 2026. Those eager to explore the evolution of ‘Resolute Raccoon’ can look forward to the next snapshot release, slated for December 18, 2025.

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Ubuntu 26.04 'Resolute Raccoon' has entered development with its first snapshot release, marking the beginning of a five-month cycle toward the LTS release in April 2026. This initial snapshot focuses on foundational package updates and tooling adjustments. Key features planned for the final release include GNOME 50, a transition to Wayland-only desktop environment, new applications like Showtime video player and Resources system monitor, enhanced App Center with DEB/APT management, and x86-64-v3 package variants for improved performance on modern CPUs. The development roadmap includes monthly snapshots, a feature freeze in February 2026, and a beta release in March 2026.

Ubuntu 26.04 'Resolute Raccoon' Snapshot 1 Released for Download

Thanks for letting me know 👍🏼, I’ll check the version.