Linux founder Linus Torvalds recently announced the launch of Linux 7.1-rc1 version. This release marks the official closing of the merge window. Developers have rushed to submit a large number of new features, patches and items to be removed before the deadline. These changes will then undergo months of rigorous testing before finally being released to the public.
This kernel update is significant for users still using older hardware, as Linux begins to phase out support for i486 processors. At present, the relevant configuration files have been deleted, but the code removal work still needs to be carried out carefully to ensure that it does not affect the stability of other functions. In addition, some old network hardware support is also being cleared, and some system-on-chip platform support that "never really made it to the market" has also been removed.
The end of i486 support has been the focus of industry attention in recent weeks. However, judging from the actual impact, it is expected that only a few users will be affected. After all, the i486 processor was launched as early as 1989 and was discontinued in 2007.
Although there are many removed projects, judging from the commit log, the total code volume of Linux 7.1 has actually increased significantly due to the simultaneous addition of a large number of new features. One of the most notable improvements is a complete refactoring of the NTFS driver. This new implementation will bring significant file transfer speed improvements and higher security to Windows and Linux dual-system users. Since it no longer relies on the expensive FUSE driver mechanism, the efficiency of transferring files between different system partitions will be greatly improved.
There are also many highlights in terms of hardware support. Linux 7.1 has added preliminary support for Intel Xe3P_LPG and Nova Lake P graphics architecture, and the Nouveau driver has also added support for the NVIDIA GA100 accelerator. For handheld players, the driver of Lenovo Rescue Go has also been improved, making the gaming experience smoother.
Talking about the development pace of this update, Torvalds said that the current situation looks "pretty normal", which is a positive sign for the official version to be released on time in a few months. He pointed out that what may really lead to delays are often complicated and chaotic situations in the late stages of development, and at least from the current stage, the advancement of Linux 7.1 remains within control.