What's new in Trisquel 12.0?

Update to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, Linux-libre 6.8 kernel, APT 3.0, new browsers GNU IceCat and ungoogled-chromium.

What desktop environments are available?

MATE 1.26.1, KDE Plasma 5.27, LXDE 0.99.2 and Sugar 0.121 for education.

Does Trisquel support upgrade from previous version?

Yes, from Trisquel 11.x via update-manager or do-release-upgrade.

Trisquel 12.0: free Linux on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Trisquel 12.0 Ecne — LTS distribution on Ubuntu 24.04, approved by FSF. Includes kernel 6.8, several DE and browsers without proprietary elements. Suitable for education, business and old hardware with support until 2029.

By Sudonull Editorial Team • Published 2026-04-15 • Updated 2026-04-15

Trisquel 12.0 Ecne: A Fully Free Linux Based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Trisquel 12.0 Ecne marks a major leap forward as a Linux distribution fully compliant with the Free Software Foundation’s (FSF) standards for free software. Built on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, this release brings an updated kernel, expanded browser choices, and multiple desktop environments tailored to diverse use cases. Support extends through April 2029.

The shift to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS enables integration of APT 3.0 and the deb822 repository format, streamlining package management in tools like Ubiquity, Synaptic, and netinstall. The Linux-libre kernel has been upgraded to version 6.8, featuring enhanced modularity for udeb installation components—reducing deployment failures and improving system stability.

Security has been strengthened with redesigned AppArmor profiles for graphical environments, minimizing vulnerabilities during daily use. The backports repository delivers up-to-date versions of key applications—including LibreOffice, Inkscape, and Kdenlive—without compromising the core principles of free software.

Key Highlights:

Zero non-free drivers, firmware, or proprietary components.
Officially recommended by the FSF and endorsed by Richard Stallman.
Long-term support until April 2029 for enterprise and personal use.
Modular 6.8 kernel for reliable installations.
Expanded browser suite: Abrowser, GNU IceCat, ungoogled-chromium.

Desktop Environment Options

Trisquel is designed to fit different needs:

Main Edition (MATE 1.26.1) — Ideal for home PCs and offices, prioritizing simplicity and low system requirements.
Triskel (KDE Plasma 5.27) — For users who love deep interface customization.
Trisquel Mini (LXDE 0.99.2) — Optimized for older hardware.
Trisquel Sugar (Sugar 0.121, or TOAST) — Specifically built for educational use in schools.

ISO image sizes range from 79 MB (netinstall) to 3.4 GB (MATE), with support for x86_64, ppc64el, arm64, and armhf architectures. Upgrading from Trisquel 11.x is seamless via update-manager or do-release-upgrade.

Context and Ecosystem Impact

Trisquel stands out by strictly adhering to the philosophy of free software—excluding all proprietary elements. This is increasingly relevant as demand grows for independent systems where privacy and full code control are paramount. The FSF recommends Trisquel as a benchmark, affirming its reliability for institutions and developers alike.

Its success stems from leveraging Ubuntu’s LTS foundation for stability, combined with continuous backports for modern applications. The result? Easier migration for free software users and reduced vendor lock-in. Future plans include RISC-V support, opening doors for new hardware platforms and IoT deployments.

Rising popularity of such distributions reflects a broader trend toward decentralization. According to FSF data, demand for fully free systems has increased by 25% in recent years—driven by growing privacy concerns. Trisquel empowers users with a ready-to-use solution that never compromises on freedom.

— Editorial Team