Linus Torvalds announced the release of Linux 7.4-rc1 on November 1, 2026, which features the largest merge window in the kernel's history, with nearly 20,000 commits. This surge is largely attributed to an influx of AI-generated contributions, alongside the kernel's anticipated designation as the next Long-Term Support (LTS) version. The release includes significant new hardware support and performance enhancements, such as initial support for Apple M4 and AMD Ryzen Zen 6, alongside major performance improvements in file systems. The final version of Linux 7.4 is expected to be released by late December 2026, with Greg Kroah-Hartman set to take over its LTS management in early 2027
Linux Kernel 7.4-rc1 Records Biggest Kernel Merge Window Ever With ~20,000 Commits
Linus Torvalds released Linux 7.4-rc1 on November 1, 2026, marking the largest merge window in the kernel's ~35-year history with nearly 20,000 commits. He attributes much of the surge to a flood of AI-generated work, though he also notes 7.4's expected role as next year's LTS kernel is partly responsible. The release packs real features, including Apple M4, AMD Ryzen Zen 6, and Google Tensor G5 support, with the final kernel expected in late December.
