Ubuntu makes ARM64 the first class platform

Ubuntu has taken a significant step forward in its support for the ARM64 architecture, positioning it as a first-class platform within the operating system. According to recent updates from Ubuntu developers, the latest Long-Term Support (LTS) version, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, marks substantial progress in aligning ARM64 with the more traditional x86-64 (AMD64) architecture. This includes improvements in package management, kernel patching capabilities, and enhanced support for ARM-based laptops and gaming applications. One of the most notable changes involves the transition of ARM64 packages into the standard Ubuntu repository. Previously, these packages were distributed through the separate ports.ubuntu.com archive. Now, they are delivered via archive.ubuntu.com, which ensures that ARM64 users benefit from the same infrastructure as AMD64 users. This shift aims to streamline package distribution, accelerate downloads, and increase availability globally. The change required adjustments across multiple components of Ubuntu's build and release processes. Additionally, Canonical plans to backport these modifications to earlier versions such as Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. Another critical advancement is the introduction of Livepatch support on ARM64. Starting in late June, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS allows for the application of security updates to the Linux kernel without requiring a system reboot. This feature was previously exclusive to AMD64 systems. To achieve this, Canonical had to implement several enhancements, including modifications to the Linux kernel itself, the toolchain used for compiling software, and new testing procedures specific to ARM64 hardware. These efforts have brought the Livepatch service on par with its functionality on x86 platforms. Progress in supporting ARM-based notebooks has also been made. With Ubuntu 25.04, support for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite platform was introduced using the generic ARM64 desktop image. In Ubuntu 25.10, secure boot functionality became available for these devices. Ubuntu 26.04 LTS represents the first LTS version to include this capability. A unique challenge arises because many Snapdragon laptops currently do not provide device trees through firmware. Device trees describe the existing hardware and are crucial for initializing ARM systems. To address this issue, Canonical developed a new EFI stub called “stubble,” which integrates the necessary device trees directly into the signed kernel image. This maintains the existing secure boot trust chain. In parallel, Canonical is working on expanding support for the upcoming Snapdragon X2 Elite generation and other ARM manufacturers. As an example, the company has released a developer image for the CIX P1 notebook. Unlike Snapdragon devices, the CIX P1 uses the familiar ACPI boot process found in PCs, thus not requiring the new EFI solution. The software ecosystem for ARM64 is also growing. Early in June, a stable version of the Steam snap built for ARM64 was released. Although the official Steam client remains limited to x86 architectures, Canonical combined it with the FEX user-space emulator to enable AMD64 games to run on supported ARM systems. However, it should be noted that this initiative does not involve direct support from Valve. Additionally, Canonical highlights native ARM64 versions of popular snap packages such as OnlyOffice, FreeCAD, and Teams for Linux. Another important component comes from Google, as Canonical points to the announced ARM64 support for Android apps running on Linux through the Fuchsia project. This integration could further expand the range of applications available on ARM64-based Ubuntu systems, enhancing their appeal for both personal and professional use.