Linux Kernel Updates Image © DALL-ELinux Kernel Updates (Image © DALL-E)

Processor and Architecture Updates

The list of new features is very long, but one important core feature is “Cache-Aware Scheduling.” This feature was developed for modern systems that use multiple last-level cache (LLC) domains. According to current benchmarks, this delivers measurable performance gains for certain workloads, thereby boosting hardware performance.

Furthermore, the kernel now supports the AMD Zen 6 architecture, with a particular focus on the upcoming EPYC 9006 Venice series as well as upcoming mobile and desktop processors. Mainline kernel support for standard features is now largely stable, although some additional patches are still under development.

There are also new additions to the kernel for Intel components, including initial support for the Panther Lake R-SoC. In addition, preparations for Nova Lake H and Diamond Rapids have been implemented, along with updates for TDX runtime operations.

Graphics and Peripheral Support

AMD graphics cards are right at home on Linux, and optimization continues here. Initial support for HDMI 2.1 FRL is available, although it remains disabled by default in version 7.2. Features such as ALLM and VRR are not yet included in this version. The AMDGPU driver now also includes the DC-Power module to further improve power management under Linux.

For laptop users, the integration of the ISP4 driver for webcam functionality on high-end Ryzen devices is noted; the HP ZBook Ultra G1a is listed as compatible.

Support for Apple hardware has also been improved: Macs equipped with the M3 chip now receive basic support that allows them to boot into the console. Full compatibility for the M3 Pro, Max, and Ultra variants is expected in version 7.3.

Performance Optimizations and Networking

Linux 7.2 includes several performance-oriented updates:

  • Intel Graphics: Various optimizations to improve hardware efficiency.
  • Memory Management: Improvements to MGLRU that lead to performance gains in MongoDB.
  • System I/O: Reduced latency when reading from /proc/filesystems.

Connectivity is improved through the introduction of the USB4STREAM protocol. This feature was developed by Intel to enable fast data packet transfer between systems connected via USB4 or Thunderbolt. Intel is the driving force behind the Thunderbolt standard, and when combined with USB4, the standard provides an excellent interface for a wide range of use cases thanks to its PCIe connection to the CPU.

Preparations for Wi-Fi 8 are also in full swing: The kernel update includes an update to the Intel IWLWIFI driver, bringing infrastructure improvements related to UHR and Wi-Fi Aware.

Deprecated Components

To improve code efficiency, several deprecated drivers and components were removed in Linux 7.2. These include support for Hercules monochrome ISA graphics cards, the Profibus driver, and ARCnet for PCMCIA and ISA. Additionally, AF_ALG has been marked as deprecated.

But the list of new features is even longer. If you want a deep dive, check out the full list.