Ubuntu Touch, the privacy-focused and freedom-respecting mobile operating system by UBports, has just released its latest update, Ubuntu Touch 20.04 OTA-6.
This is a maintenance release in the 20.04 series, but it still packs some important enhancements. With that said, a few improvements are worth noting:
- Support for Newer Android Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL): Some support for newer generations of Android HAL has been added, which will help pave the way for future device support, including the Fairphone 5 and the upcoming Volla Phone Quintus. Complete support is still in progress, but this is a promising step forward.
- Improved Wireless Display Stability: Users can expect better stability in wireless display functionality on certain devices. This enhancement, thanks to Azkali from Volla, is part of the continuous improvements being made to enhance the user experience.
- Bug Fixes and Security Updates: As with any maintenance release, OTA-6 also addresses general bug fixes and includes essential security updates.
Unfortunately, the team had to roll back VoLTE support for the Volla Phone X23 and Volla Phone 22 running the Halium 12 port due to a last-minute regression. The team is actively working on fixing this issue and plans to reintroduce VoLTE support for these devices in the future.
If you are an existing Ubuntu Touch user, you’ll receive the OTA-6 update through the Updates screen in System Settings. The rollout will happen in stages, with devices randomly selected to receive the update to ensure stability.
Once your device is eligible, you’ll get a notification, and you can install the update directly. For those eager to get the update right away, there is an option to manually trigger it. Connect your device to a computer, open a terminal, and run the following command over ADB shell:
sudo system-image-cli -v -p 0 --progress dotsCode language: Bash (bash)This will download and install the update, but keep in mind that it may take a while, depending on your internet connection. If you’re a new user interested in installing Ubuntu Touch, detailed instructions can be found at https://devices.ubuntu-touch.io.
Lastly, over the next few days, Ubuntu Touch 20.04 OTA-6 will be rolling out to the following supported devices:
- Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC / X3
- Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1
- F(x)tec Pro1 X
- Fairphone 3, 3+, and 4
- Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL
- JingPad A1
- OnePlus 5, 5T, 6, 6T, Nord N10 5G, and Nord N100
- Sony Xperia X
- Vollaphone series (X, 22, X23)
Check out the release announcement for more details and the complete list of novelties in Ubuntu Touch OTA-6.
