The latest Ubuntu 24.10 release brings official support for the Snapdragon-powered Lenovo ThinkPad X13s laptop through the standard ARM64 ISO, marking a significant update.
Previously, while Ubuntu 23.10 could run on the ThinkPad X13s, it required a custom ISO designed specifically for that model. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS did not offer an official installer image for this laptop (although upgrading from 23.10 to 24.04 was feasible, it came with some limitations).
However, with the debut of Ubuntu 24.10 in October, users can now use the generic Ubuntu ARM64 ISO—similar to the traditional Intel/AMD versions featuring a live session and a guided installation process—to effortlessly initiate the system on the ThinkPad X13s.
This is indeed a step forward!
This is specifically the Ubuntu ARM64 .iso file, not to be confused with the preinstalled ARM64 .img file, which is typically used for ARM devices like the Raspberry Pi.
Canonical’s Juerg Haefliger is spearheading the support for this laptop, which runs on a Snapdragon 8cx processor. Although it isn’t as powerful or exciting as the newer ‘Snapdragon X’ series, it’s still quite capable.
In a recent update, he mentions that during the Oracular cycle, he has been supported by his colleague Tobias Heider. Thanks to Heider’s diligence, the ThinkPad X13s now supports the regular Ubuntu ARM64 ISO.
To get Ubuntu on the ThinkPad X13s, users should download the normal Ubuntu ARM desktop image, flash the ISO onto a USB stick, boot the USB on the ThinkPad X13s, and proceed with the installation.
Haefliger emphasizes the necessity for users to select the ‘install third-party software and drivers’ option during setup, as failing to do so results in the device not booting post-installation due to the lack of critical X13s-specific drivers and configuration files.
Once completed, the installation should be functional.
However, having Ubuntu operational on a device does not guarantee an optimal user experience. While performance and usability are not flawless, noticeable improvements have been made in versions 23.10 and 24.04.
The Linux Kernel 6.11 brings various important fixes for ARM laptops, including support for the webcam and potentially hardware acceleration through a binary blob, though confirmation of this feature’s functionality is pending as I do not have access to this laptop for verification.
ARM laptops remain arms-length option for most
If you’re considering an ARM-based laptop that can support Linux, it might be wise to wait for a more dedicated solution, such as the soon-to-be-released Snapdragon X Elite laptop from TUXEDO Computers, which comes preconfigured with Linux.
The ThinkPad X13s is no longer the cutting edge in terms of speed, and acquiring support for this model is still a fragmented affair. Although challenging to find brand new, patient shoppers can sometimes find good deals on used models online, including eBay.
However, unless you specifically need an ARM laptop, you might be better off with Intel or AMD options. ARM laptops often face inconsistent hardware and software support, and compatibility with Linux distributions can vary. Intel and AMD systems generally offer more power with fewer complications.
For now anyway…