Canonical has announced the release of Ubuntu Core 24, which introduces a number of new features such as validation sets for container images, better GPU integration, and new device management integrations.
“Ubuntu Core is the locked-down, hardened, embedded version of Ubuntu, that brings Ubuntu applications to the far edge and enables the next generation of intelligent devices,” said Mark Shuttleworth, CEO of Canonical. “In Ubuntu Core 24 we are excited to bring the full AI stack with real-time kernel to the edge, to enable mission-critical decision making for industrial, automotive and security-sensitive embedded solutions.”
Validation sets are signed documents specifying which applications (and versions of those applications) should be installed together. This feature is now incorporated into the tool used to create Ubuntu images, and will ensure that devices have the correct applications installed as a group.
This release also introduces greater control over automatic network requests. Manufacturers can now disable network communications during installation, and offline remodeling will enable teams to update Ubuntu Core versions in air-gapped environments.
Ubuntu Core 24 improves GPU integrations in a number of ways as well. Developers can use the GPU interface now to embed applications in products that require graphics acceleration. Additionally, updated graphics drivers improve hardware compatibility in this area.
Ubuntu Frame now supports hybrid GPU systems, which allows teams to leverage a combination of open and closed platforms.
Integration with device management platforms was also improved, including Landscape, which is Canonical’s systems management tool, and Microsoft Azure IoT Edge. Landscape can be used as a central place for managing OTA updates, auditing, access control, and compliance across devices. Azure IoT Edge snaps are a new feature that allow users to deploy, manage, and monitor edge workloads from Azure.
Ubuntu Core 24 is a Long Term Support release, and it will be supported for the next 12 years.
