5 Linux distros that got major updates in October 2026
From distros for Raspberry Pi to ones that locked down for advanced security, there were several interesting updates in the Linux world in October.
There are lots of Linux distributions out there, and all of them (that are worth using) are under constant development. Here are five noteworthy updates to popular operating systems based on the Linux kernel from the month of October 2026.
DietPi
The DietPi operating system, an alternative to Raspberry Pi OS, got updated to DietPi 10.8 in October. DietPi has several scripts for installing and managing server software, and this release added a dedicated WireGuard management interface. It also brings an improved experience for installing a HAProxy service on your single-board computer.
Jordan Gloor
Parrot OS
The Parrot operating system, one that emphasizes privacy and security while still providing a platform for general-purpose computing, released Parrot 7.4. The update includes an reworked version of its AnonSurf tool, which redirects system-level internet traffic through Tor. There's a new "Parrot Discovery" setup wizard for new installations, initial support for Orange Pi computers, and the ability to opt-in to faster amd64v3 and arm64v8.2 packages.
Qubes OS
Another security-focused Linux distribution, this one more robust and storied than Parrot, released a major update: Qubes OS 4.3. The default Fedora template, used for installing software, has been updated to Fedora 41, while the Debian template was boosted to Debian 13 and the Whonix one to Whonix 18. Its QWT for integrating Windows apps into the Qubes desktop saw some enhancements, and its graphical device manager was overhauled.
Ubuntu (and family)
The much-anticipated Ubuntu 26.10 exited beta and was generally released in October, along with the same version number for all of Ubuntu's other flavors. The update brings the GNOME 51 desktop and the new Myna voice dictation tool. It also brings the debut of official images for RISC-V boards.
ZimaOS
The Linux-based operating system designed for NAS devices, ZimaOS, announced the release of ZimaOS 1.8.0 in mid-October. There are several new features for its image gallery tool including a natural language photo search, a "Memories" generator for promoting specific events based on photos, and a way to "favorite" photos. You can now control the fans on certain devices through ZimaOS, and macOS' Spotlight tool now integrates with the operating system.
In less exciting news, Linux Lite got a minor update boosting the kernel version, along with a note that all future releases will get detailed changelogs and package lists (which is exciting for someone like me). Also, Fedora 45 notably didn't exit beta before the month ended, as delays stopped it from hitting either its first or second release target.
