Haiku OS October 2026 update adds UFS driver and touchpad gestures

The Haiku OS project has released its October 2026 status report, detailing several subsystem improvements for the BeOS-inspired operating system. Key developments include the introduction of a driver for Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interfaces, which expands the platform's compatibility with modern flash-based storage devices.

Beyond storage, the update enhances user experience through new touchpad handling capabilities, specifically supporting two and three-finger tap gestures. The release also includes filesystem refinements, application bug fixes, and updates to the build system to ensure compatibility with the GCC 15 compiler.

Technical improvements in the October update

• Storage Subsystem: A new driver for the Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interface has been implemented to support flash storage devices.
• Input Handling: The touchpad driver code has been updated to recognize and process two and three-finger tap gestures.
• Filesystem Support: NTFS support has been enhanced by importing upstream changes from the NTFS-3G project.
• Toolchain Compatibility: The Haiku build system has undergone adaptations to support the GCC 15 compiler.

Why it matters

These updates improve Haiku's viability on modern hardware by supporting contemporary storage standards and improving laptop-style input ergonomics. The integration of NTFS-3G improvements and GCC 15 support also aids in better data interoperability and developer readiness for upcoming compiler releases.