Canonical has released the Ubuntu 26.04 LTS long-term support version in April 2026. Initially, this version was only available to users of new installations, but now the new version is gradually opening up to existing users for upgrades, because some old versions will soon end their life cycles.
According to the life cycle plan, Ubuntu version 25.10 will end support in July 2026. Therefore, users using this version should upgrade to the new version as soon as possible before the end of support, otherwise they will not be able to obtain necessary software security updates in the future, which may cause system security to deteriorate.
Desktop users usually use the non-long-term support version. Now Canonical has opened a graphical interface upgrade for Ubuntu 25.10 desktop users. Users only need to open the software update program to check for updates and click the upgrade button. The whole process may take about 15 minutes (including downloading). Users can plan their PC usage time in advance to facilitate the upgrade.
In addition, the reason why Ubuntu 25.10 users are only allowed to upgrade now is that the previous initial version of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS had some errors. These errors may cause some important software packages on the system to be uninstalled and cause problems. Now that the problems have been resolved, Canonical provides users with upgrade services.
For users using the Ubuntu 24.04 LTS version, please continue to wait patiently. This version cannot be directly upgraded yet. Canonical plans to release the Ubuntu 26.04.1 LTS version in August. This version will be more stable and fix various feedback collected during this period, so users using LTS please wait patiently.