On February 24, 2026, the first release candidate version of Linux kernel 7.0-rc1 was officially released. This update elevates the major version number from 6.x to 7.0, achieving breakthroughs in hardware compatibility, file systems, performance optimization, and programming language support. In terms of hardware support, the kernel significantly expands compatibility with next-generation processors, including Intel's Nova Lake and Diamond Rapids architectures, AMD's Zen 6 microarchitecture, and ARM platform devices such as Qualcomm Snapdragon X2. In the graphics domain, AMD provides dedicated graphics hardware drivers for unreleased new devices. Regarding file systems and storage technologies, the F2FS file system has enhanced functionality, the EXT4 file system supports improved concurrent direct I/O writes, and the exFAT file system sees a significant boost in sequential read performance. The kernel introduces new support for Octal DTR mode in SPI NAND and optimizes the multi-threaded SPI transmission protocol. Performance optimizations cover multiple core components, with targeted tuning for PostgreSQL database performance on AMD EPYC server platforms. The memory management subsystem reduces fragmentation issues through algorithmic refactoring, and the Intel platform enables TSX auto-mode by default to enhance parallel efficiency in multi-threaded applications. In graphics drivers, the Nouveau open-source driver introduces large page support. Expanding on system-level functionality, the Linux 7.0 kernel officially confirms long-term support for the Rust programming language. The development team adds drivers for Apple USB Type-C physical layer controllers, improving hardware compatibility with Mac devices. The sensor monitoring framework adds support for multiple ASUS motherboards, while a non-blocking timestamp mechanism and standardized I/O error reporting system enhance system debugging and operational efficiency. In his release email, Linus Torvalds joked about his fear of numbers, stating that version numbers are more milestones on a timeline and do not represent revolutionary changes. He also half-jokingly addressed the topic of succession, saying that someday a more capable person unafraid of big numbers will take over Linux.