Linux 2.6 Kernel Test Version Released

Two weeks after taking leave from chipmaker Transmeta, Linus Torvalds has announced version 2.6.0-test1, a preliminary test of the 2.6 kernel for the Linux operating system.

The test series of kernels allows more widespread testing of the new version. In his release announcement, Torvalds wrote that "the point of the test versions is to make more people realize that they need testing and get some straggling developers realizing that it's too late to worry about the next big feature."

"I'm hoping that Linux vendors will start offering the test kernels as installation alternatives, and do things like make upgrade internal machines, so that when the real 2.6.0 does happen, we're all set," said Torvalds.

Among the improvements of the upcoming kernel are support for newer processors and hardware, improved security, and enhanced laptop support. Users will notice that the system is more responsive with many processes running.

The source code for version 2.6.0-test1 can be downloaded from kernel.org.