Linus Torvalds Releases Linux 6.4 and Announces Linux 6.5 as “the Last Kernel of Its Generation”

# Linus Torvalds Releases Linux 6.4 and Announces Linux 6.5 as “the Last Kernel of Its Generation”<br><br>Linus Torvalds released the Linux 6.4 kernel, which “saw another pretty normal rc series,” according to Torvalds. It includes several key improvements and updates for various hardware and software components. Additionally, Torvalds announced that Linux 6.5 will be the last kernel in the 6.x series before moving on to the next major version of the Linux kernel.<br><br>## Linux 6.4 Key Highlights<br><br>The Linux 6.4 kernel brings significant improvements and updates across several key areas:<br><br>### Improved Support for Intel Arc GPUs<br><br>Linus Torvalds describes improved support for Intel Arc GPUs, which will enable additional features for integrated and discrete graphics cards.<br><br>### Advancements in USB4 and Thunderbolt Support<br><br>Linux 6.4 includes enhanced support for USB4 and Thunderbolt 4, offering better compatibility and performance for devices connected via these interfaces.<br><br>### New Capabilities for Intel “Keem Bay” AI Hardware<br><br>The 6.4 kernel adds new capabilities for Intel’s “Keem Bay” AI hardware, enabling improved performance and support for AI-related workloads.<br><br>### Preliminary Support for Intel Meteor Lake<br><br>Linux 6.4 offers preliminary support for Intel’s upcoming Meteor Lake CPUs. Although early in development, this support lays the groundwork for more comprehensive integration in future kernel releases.<br><br>### ASUS ROG G31ED AI-Powered Gaming GPU<br><br>The kernel includes preliminary support for the ASUS ROG G31ED AI-powered gaming GPU, marking the beginning of AI-assisted graphics capabilities in the Linux ecosystem.<br><br>### Enhanced Security Capabilities<br><br>Linux 6.4 features several security-related updates, including the introduction of function graph tracing for improved tracking and detection of potential security threats.<br><br>## Linux 6.5: The Last Kernel of Its Generation<br><br>Linus Torvalds has announced that Linux 6.5 will be the final kernel in the 6.x series. This decision signifies the end of an era, as Torvalds has traditionally maintained multiple kernel series concurrently. However, with the introduction of the 5.x, 6.x, and potentially even 7.x series, Torvalds has decided to end the 6.x series after the next update. This change will enable a fresh start with the next major kernel series, allowing Linux development to progress more efficiently and consistently.<br><br>Following the Linux 6.5 release, Torvalds will then focus on the development of the 5.x series and potentially the newly introduced 7.x series.<br><br>## Conclusion<br><br>The release of Linux 6.4 and the upcoming Linux 6.5 mark significant milestones in the Linux kernel’s development cycle. With numerous improvements and enhancements across various hardware and software components, the Linux kernel continues to advance and mature. As the 6.x series comes to a close, the Linux community can expect exciting new developments and innovations in the upcoming kernel series.