Linus Torvalds has released Linux Kernel 7.0-rc3, which features a significantly larger patch set compared to rc2, primarily due to an expanded test suite aimed at identifying regressions before the final release. The changes mainly consist of routine clean-ups and minor hardware adjustments, with the inclusion of self-tests that help ensure stability. While this release candidate remains experimental and is best suited for testing on spare hardware or virtual machines, it signifies the kernel team's commitment to tightening safety measures ahead of the official release. The stable version of Linux Kernel 7.0 is expected to be available within a month, contingent on the reduction of test failures

Linux Kernel 7.0 RC3 released: Bigger Than rc2 Because of More Self‑Tests

Linus Torvalds just released Linux Kernel 7.0‑rc3, a surprisingly large patch set largely composed of an expanded test suite rather than new features. The increase in size reflects the kernel team’s effort to catch regressions before the final 7.0 release, with most other changes being routine clean‑ups or hardware quirks. For everyday users this candidate remains experimental and best suited for testing on spare hardware or virtual machines. Once failures drop below a threshold, rc3 will be merged into the next branch, leading to the official 7.0 release in roughly a month after today’s announcement.

Linux Kernel 7.0 RC3 released: Bigger Than rc2 Because of More Self‑Tests @ Linux Compatible