The second release candidate for Linux Kernel 7.1, known as rc2, has been released, focusing on fixing graphics and networking driver bugs while also improving internal test code. Although the patch count appears unusually high due to variable renaming in KVM selftests, the actual functional enhancements are consistent with typical release candidate expectations. Key improvements include stability fixes for AMD GPU stacks and networking issues that address memory leaks and race conditions. Developers suspect that an increase in AI-assisted patch generation tools is contributing to the higher patch volume, which may result in a longer testing period before the final release
Linux Kernel 7.1 RC2 released
The second release candidate for Linux Kernel 7.1 has arrived with a focus on squashing graphics and networking driver bugs while cleaning up internal test code. The unusually large patch count is mostly an illusion caused by renaming variables in the KVM selftests to match kernel standards. Real improvements target stability fixes like memory leak patches and race condition resolutions that prevent sudden connection drops or display corruption. Developers suspect AI-assisted tooling is driving this higher-than-usual patch volume, which could extend the testing window before the final 7.1 release.
