Canonical has released the initial monthly snapshot of Ubuntu 26.10, codenamed ‘Stonking Stingray’. This snapshot marks the first of four planned releases leading up to the stable version scheduled for 15 October 2026.
Utkarsh Gupta announced the release on the Ubuntu developer mailing list, mentioning that certain images are missing from this snapshot but will be included in Snapshot 2. Unlike alpha builds, these monthly snapshots serve as a means for Ubuntu engineers to refine their automated build processes. While they provide users an opportunity to test the upcoming release, they do not represent traditional development milestones.
As it’s the first snapshot, it doesn’t feature significant new updates. Therefore, it isn’t imperative to download it unless you are looking to test specific aspects. Initial packages from Debian are starting to be integrated.
Notable user-facing changes will emerge later in the development phase, including the upcoming GNOME 51, enhanced Security Center options, and initial implementations of Ubuntu AI features.
If you’re interested in testing out an Ubuntu development release, these snapshots are a viable option. However, if you need to test something more current, consider opting for a recent daily build.
The next snapshot, Ubuntu 26.10 Snapshot 2, is expected to be released around 25 June. In the following weeks, the Linux 7.1 kernel will likely be prepared for testing, with plans to use the Linux 7.2 kernel in the final Ubuntu 26.10 release.
You can download Ubuntu 26.10 Snapshot 1 from the Ubuntu cdimage server.