# Edubuntu 26.10 released with GNOME 51 and Linux kernel 7.3

> **Key takeaway:** The Edubuntu 26.10 release introduces GNOME 51, Linux kernel 7.3, and an improved system installer.

**Published:** 2026-10-15T17:30:28+00:00 
**Source:** DistroWatch Weekly & News 
**Category:** distro-news 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/edubuntu-2610-released-with-gnome-51-and-linux-kernel-73.html 

## Summary
Edubuntu, an Ubuntu partner project designed for classroom environments, has released version 26.10. This update features the GNOME 51 desktop environment, Linux kernel 7.3, refreshed branding, and a version 1.1 installer with more granular package selection capabilities.

## Technical updates in Edubuntu 26.10
- **Desktop Environment**: Upgraded to **GNOME 51** for improved performance and usability.
- **Kernel**: Includes **Linux kernel 7.3** for updated hardware support.
- **Installer (v1.1)**: Features expandable metapackage lists and allows users to select or remove specific **Depends** and **Recommends** packages via GTK4/Qt6 interfaces or the **Cockpit** module.
- **Branding**: Updated GRUB boot menu branding and refreshed system/About logos.

## Why it matters
As an educational distribution, these updates provide students and educators with more modern desktop tools and better control over software installation during setup.