Armbian, a lightweight Debian-based Linux distribution for ARM-based single-board computers, has released version 26.2.
A key feature is the availability of Linux kernel 6.18 LTS images for multiple supported platforms, thus improving hardware support and compatibility for modern SBCs and embedded systems. Newly supported hardware in Armbian 26.2 includes the SpacemiT MusePi Pro, Radxa Rock 4D, OrangePi RV2, and Odroid M2.
Desktop options have also been expanded. In addition to KDE Neon builds and RISC-V XFCE desktop support for users targeting RISC-V hardware, Armbian 26.2 now introduces Cinnamon and KDE Neon desktop images for Generic/UEFI systems.
The release also adds a new desktop-stable-ubuntu-gnome target, based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, intended for boards classified as “fast HDMI.” At the same time, the existing desktop-stable-ubuntu-xfce target is reassigned to “slow HDMI” boards only. For reference, XFCE previously supported fast HDMI devices. That variant has now been removed and effectively replaced by GNOME in the stable lineup.
On the tooling side, the Armbian project updated its Armbian Imager, adding faster image decompression, enhanced security through code signing on macOS and Windows, AI-assisted translations, and a new settings panel with developer options.
Version 26.2 also introduces a board-level extension to mask Wayland desktop sessions. For more details, see the announcement or the full changelog.
