Linux Kernel 7.1 Is a Feature Release That Could Be Useful for You
It's FOSS, Monday, June 15th, 2026
Linux 7.1 enables Intel FRED by default, adds a new NTFS driver, and supports 12 new SoCs.
Linux 7.1 arrives as a major feature release in the 7.x series, bringing significant upgrades beyond its minor version number.
It enables Intel's Flexible Return and Event Delivery (FRED) by default, expected to benefit I/O-heavy workloads on newer Intel processors. After four years of development, a new NTFS driver has been merged into the mainline kernel, which Linus Torvalds called the ntfs resurrection.
Other improvements include crypto subsystem enhancements for Intel QAT hardware, expanded AMD power management controls, and support for twelve new system-on-chip platforms from vendors including Qualcomm, Microchip, and Rockchip. The kernel drops i486 CPU support and fixes a Steam Deck OLED audio bug.