If you have been eager to upgrade to Ubuntu 26.04 LTS from Ubuntu 25.10, there’s good news—the upgrade path has officially opened as of May 14, 2026. Ubuntu 26.04 LTS introduced significant features, including GNOME 50, Linux 7.0, and new default applications. It also added Snap app and web search integrations to the GNOME Shell Overview, and users can now enable Ubuntu Pro directly via the Security Center.
The new version, codenamed "Resolute Raccoon," comes with redesigned folder icons, visual feedback for sudo commands, and easy access to NVIDIA CUDA and AMD ROCm for developers, all available just by running apt install.
The upgrade process had been delayed for nearly a month due to some specific bugs that were causing issues during the upgrade, particularly by removing critical packages on certain system configurations. Now that the upgrade is available to all users, it’s worth noting that if you are not in a hurry, it might be best to wait a few days to see if any further issues arise.
How to Upgrade from 25.10
Users can either wait for a notification from Ubuntu indicating that a new version is available or manually check in the Update Manager. Once notified, you’ll be prompted to upgrade to 26.04 LTS if all updates are installed.
Before beginning the upgrade, it’s essential to back up critical files, configurations, and settings. Ensure all pending updates are completed and that there is sufficient disk space for the upgrade process. An internet connection is also required.
Follow the prompts during the upgrade, being mindful of any warning dialogs about ‘foreign packages,’ which can often cause confusion. Third-party APT repositories (PPAs) will be disabled during the upgrade, so they will need to be re-enabled afterward.
Lastly, keep in mind that Ubuntu 26.04 recommends a minimum of 6GB RAM for optimal performance, an increase from the 4GB requirement for version 25.10. This adjustment reflects the growing demands of applications commonly used on Ubuntu.
For more information on the upgrade, you can refer to the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS release page here.