Canonical has released Ubuntu 25.10, codenamed “Questing Quokka,” along with updates to all its official flavors. This release brings powerful improvements, refreshed desktop environments, and a more modern base system built on the Linux kernel 6.17.
Ubuntu 25.10 and its flavors—Kubuntu, Xubuntu, Lubuntu, Edubuntu, Ubuntu Studio, Ubuntu Budgie, Ubuntu Cinnamon, Ubuntu MATE, and Ubuntu Kylin—share the same core components and system-level enhancements, ensuring a consistent and high-performance experience across all variants.
Key System Upgrades in Ubuntu 25.10
This release introduces several under-the-hood improvements that modernize the Ubuntu ecosystem:
Linux kernel 6.17: Enhances hardware support and improves performance and security.
sudo-rs as default: A new, Rust-based implementation of sudo, boosting security and reliability.
Dracut as default initramfs: Replacing initramfs-tools for faster and more modular booting.
Rust Coreutils: A Rust-based replacement for GNU Core Utilities, offering better memory safety and speed.
These changes reflect Ubuntu’s continued move toward Rust-powered system components for improved stability and maintainability.
What’s New in Kubuntu 25.10 and Ubuntu Studio 25.10
Kubuntu 25.10 and Ubuntu Studio 25.10 both feature the KDE Plasma 6.4.5 desktop, powered by KDE Frameworks 6.17 and KDE Gear 25.08.1, all built using Qt 6.9.2.
Ubuntu Studio 25.10 also introduces:
An optional macOS-style layout with a lower dock and global menu.
New audio configuration options in Ubuntu Studio Audio Configuration.
JackTrip for remote audio collaboration.
New creative tools such as PhotoCollage, PicPlanner, and Internet DJ Console.
A collection of updated audio plugins and synthesizers for artists and producers.
Lubuntu, Xubuntu, Cinnamon, MATE, and Budgie Updates
Each flavor gets a polished desktop experience:
Lubuntu 25.10: Ships with LXQt 2.2, offering a fast and lightweight environment.
Xubuntu 25.10: Features the modern Xfce 4.20 desktop by default.
Ubuntu Cinnamon 25.10: Brings the elegant Cinnamon 6.4.12 desktop.
Ubuntu MATE 25.10: Defaults to the MATE 1.26 desktop, offering a classic GNOME 2 feel.
Ubuntu Budgie 25.10: Includes Budgie 10.9.3, compatible with GNOME 49, improving performance and UI smoothness.
Ubuntu Kylin 25.10 and Edubuntu 25.10
Ubuntu Kylin 25.10 debuts a revamped software store designed for simplified app management and a better user experience.
Meanwhile, Edubuntu 25.10, the education-focused flavor, benefits from the same core upgrades and refreshed user interface, making it more efficient for classroom and learning environments.
With Ubuntu 25.10 “Questing Quokka”, Canonical continues its tradition of combining stability with innovation. The inclusion of Rust-based components, updated desktop environments, and enhanced system tools make this release one of the most forward-looking updates yet.
Whether you prefer KDE, Xfce, LXQt, Cinnamon, or Budgie, there’s a flavor tailored to your workflow—all backed by Ubuntu’s powerful and secure foundation.