Torvalds Announces First Linux Kernel 4.0 Release Candidate

Linus Torvalds has given the green light for the release candidate of Linux kernel 4.0. Despite the jump in version number, the new kernel contains no major changes. It mainly focuses on fixing bugs and improving stability.

In recent weeks there has been a discussion within the Linux development community whether the version number of the Linux kernel should be lifted to version 3.20 or to a 4.0 release. However, partly in response to a poll, Linus Torvalds took the plunge and announced the first release candidate of kernel version 4.0. The code name that Linus has assigned is ‘Hurr durr I’ma sheep’.

Linux 4.0-rc1 contains no significant innovations. However, support for IBM’s new Z13 mainframe has been added, as well as for Intel’s Quark soc and various ARM socs. Support for audio playback on a DisplayPort connection is also available for the AMD Radeon driver and various drivers have been added to the kernel code.