Kernel Version for OpenSTLinux on STM32MP25 Series

Will_Robertson · ‎2025-11-13

Hi,

I was wondering if there's any guidance on the approximate timeline for rebasing OpenSTLinux from kernel 6.6 to kernel 6.12 (autumn 2024) or to kernel 6.15, 6.16, 6.17 or 6.18?

I know that this is an enormous amount of work and a very complex task - the STM32MP25 is an extremely advanced chip and there are some significant changes in the kernel between kernel 6.6 and kernel 6.12 LTS and later kernels so it won't be possible to give any definite timescales for this at this stage.

It would be great to have a very approximate rough idea of the planned timelines for this since the advances in the kernel between 6.6 and 6.15 LTS make significant improvements in the kernel's ability to handle advanced functionality on the STM32MP25 and on ST image sensors. :)

Thank you very much for your help!

Will

Bernard PUEL · ‎2025-11-20

Hello Will,

Here below a copy of ST communication during this summer. The maintenance of OSTL release up to 5 years (starting from v6.0.0) has a big impact on the release plan.

ST release will skip one kernel LTS to have a new major release every 2 years and it will be aligned also with Yocto LTS release (every 2 years).

So next ST release will still be on 6.6 kernel (v6.2.0 ecosystem release in Feb). Then next one will be v7.0 major release integrating latest kernel LTS (probably 6.18).

"ST is also extending support for each release of the OpenSTLinux distribution from two years to five years. The enhanced support ensures stability for customers throughout development and extends access to the latest security patches easing compliance with the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). ST’s commitment to mainlining OpenSTLinux lets developers work comfortably with popular frameworks including Yocto, Buildroot, OpenWRT, and OpenSTDroid, and helps accelerate time to market."

Will_Robertson · ‎2025-11-21

Hello Bernard @Bernard PUEL,

Thank you very much - that's an enormous help to me to understand the move to the 2-year aligned kernel and Yocto release cycle.

Will