Ubuntu 26.10 introduces local voice assistant
The new interim release adds post-quantum security and GNOME 51, among other features.
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Canonical has released Ubuntu 26.10, the latest six-monthly version of the Linux operating system. The release includes an optional local voice assistant, new security features and updated development software.
Ubuntu 26.10 is called Stonking Stingray and has been available since Thursday. It is an interim release, intended for users who want to test new features before the next long-supported version appears.
The most notable addition is Myna, an optional speech-to-text assistant that uses local language models. According to Canonical, speech processing takes place on the device, meaning audio data does not have to be sent to an external service by default.
Canonical has also completed the transition to Rust-based core utilities. The release additionally includes support for post-quantum signing of software packages. This is intended to help protect the authenticity of updates against future cryptographic attacks over the longer term.
On the desktop, Ubuntu 26.10 uses GNOME 51. The release also includes improvements for displays, accessibility, hardware support and integration with Microsoft identity services.
According to the release schedule, the new version will receive nine months of support. Organisations that primarily need stability and long-term support will generally remain on an LTS version. For home users and developers, the release is mainly relevant as a testing and development platform.
Fact-check Approved · Nour Haddad — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The release and its technical features were checked directly against Canonical and Ubuntu documentation. Claims about future benefits are limited and described as the manufacturer’s intention.
- confirmed Ubuntu 26.10 was released on 15 October. — Canonical gives the release date. source
- confirmed Myna is an optional local speech-to-text function. — Canonical describes Myna as optional and operating locally. source
- confirmed Ubuntu 26.10 uses GNOME 51. — Mentioned in the release announcement and release notes. source
- confirmed The new release includes post-quantum signing for packages. — Canonical describes the integration of Sequoia PGP and post-quantum support. source
Editor's note
The release and the functions mentioned have been confirmed by Canonical and independent Linux publications. Myna’s practical performance and privacy benefits have not yet been independently evaluated.Sources
- Canonical releases Ubuntu 26.10 Stonking Stingray — Canonical
- Ubuntu 26.10 Released With Linux 7.3 + GNOME 51 — Phoronix
- Ubuntu 26.10 release notes — Ubuntu Documentation