The latest update to Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, known as Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS, is now available for download. This release, which was delayed due to issues with the Ubuntu 24.04.1 LTS release, brings a new installer image that includes all the software, security, and stability updates that have been released since the last ISO was created. This means that users will have fewer updates to download after installing the operating system.
One of the key features of Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS is the inclusion of a new HWE stack, which means that the installer now boots Linux kernel 6.8 by default and comes with a newer set of graphics drivers compared to the previous ISO. These updates have been backported from the latest Ubuntu 24.04 LTS release. Additionally, all the other Ubuntu flavours that offer long-term support, such as Xubuntu 22.04.5 LTS and Ubuntu Kylin 22.04.5 LTS, have also been updated.
If you are already using Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, you don’t need to download the new ISO and perform a fresh install to get the updates included in this release. The fixes and app updates have been gradually applied over the past few months, so your system should already be up to date. The Linux kernel 6.8 and the new graphics driver stack were rolled out to existing users as a software update a few weeks ago. If you haven’t already done so, you can run the Software Manager to install them.
Although Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS is the final planned point release in the ‘Jammy Jellyfish’ series, support for this version will continue until 2027 on the desktop, with additional security coverage available through Ubuntu Pro. Users also have the option to upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS from 22.04 LTS at any time. The critical bug that caused direct upgrades to be paused has been resolved, so users can now proceed with the upgrade process.
Overall, the release of Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS brings several important updates and improvements to the operating system, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and security enhancements. Whether you choose to stick with the current version or upgrade to the latest LTS release, Ubuntu continues to provide a reliable and secure platform for all your computing needs.