Linux Kernel 7.1 Officially Released with New NTFS Driver, Intel FRED, and Major Code Cleanup

The Linux kernel development team has officially released Linux Kernel 7.1, marking the first major update in the 7.x series. Announced by Linus Torvalds on June 14, 2026, the release introduces a mix of new features, hardware improvements, filesystem enhancements, and large-scale code cleanup efforts that continue modernizing the Linux platform.

While Linux 7.1 is not a long-term support (LTS) release, it delivers several significant changes that will eventually make their way into many Linux distributions over the coming months.

A Brand-New NTFS Driver Arrives

One of the most significant additions in Linux 7.1 is a completely rewritten in-kernel NTFS filesystem driver.

The new implementation has reportedly been under development for several years and replaces older code with a modern design built around Linux’s current storage infrastructure. The driver utilizes technologies such as iomap and folios, which improve efficiency and simplify future maintenance.

Benefits include:

• Improved NTFS write performance
• Better handling of large files
• More modern filesystem architecture
• Easier future development and maintenance

For users who regularly exchange data between Linux and Windows systems, this is one of the most important improvements in the release.

Intel FRED Enabled by Default

Linux 7.1 also enables Intel Flexible Return and Event Delivery (FRED) by default on supported hardware.

FRED is a newer CPU mechanism designed to improve how processors handle interrupts and exceptions. By replacing older methods with a more streamlined approach, FRED aims to improve performance and reduce complexity in low-level CPU operations.

The feature primarily benefits newer Intel platforms, including upcoming processor generations.

Graphics Drivers Continue to Improve

Graphics support remains a major focus of kernel development, and Linux 7.1 delivers additional improvements for both Intel and AMD hardware.

Highlights include:

• Performance enhancements for Intel Arc GPUs
• Continued work on Intel Battlemage graphics
• Updates for AMD Radeon hardware
• Expanded GPU reliability monitoring infrastructure through DRM-RAS support

These updates help improve gaming, desktop performance, and workstation workloads across modern Linux systems.

Steam Deck OLED Audio Fixes Land Upstream

Linux gamers receive a welcome improvement in this release as audio support fixes for the Steam Deck OLED have finally been merged into the mainline kernel.