AlmaLinux OS Foundation has released the 9.9 Beta, "Chartreuse Bobcat," which includes the GCC Toolset 16 and a Linux kernel fix for CPU spikes that Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 9.9 has not yet implemented. This beta also introduces new module streams for Node.js 26 and PHP 8.4, along with security updates for several components, including SELinux and SSSD. Noteworthy changes include the major version update of fapolicyd to 2.0.1 and a rollback in authselect's group-merging behavior, both of which should be tested prior to production deployment. Additionally, the beta contains an upstream kernel fix that addresses excessive CPU consumption, showcasing AlmaLinux's community-led approach in contrast to RHEL's release schedule

AlmaLinux 9.9 Beta Ships with GCC 16, Beats RHEL Kernel Fix

AlmaLinux OS Foundation released the 9.9 Beta, "Chartreuse Bobcat," today, adding the GCC Toolset 16 alongside the current GCC 15. The build also carries a Linux kernel fix for systemd and ps CPU spikes that RHEL 9.9 hasn't adopted, shipped via ALESCo's community-led model. Node.js 26 and PHP 8.4 join as new module streams, with security updates for SSSD, SELinux, Keylime, and Clevis. Notably, fapolicyd jumps to a major 2.0.1 release and authselect reverts its 9.8 group-merging default to opt-in, making both key things to test before going live.

AlmaLinux 9.9 Beta Ships with GCC 16, Beats RHEL Kernel Fix @ Linux Compatible