Alpine Linux 3.19.0: The Latest Release

Alpine Linux has officially released version 3.19.0 , marking the introduction of the v3.19 stable series. This release encompasses various updates and improvements across the system.

Core Component Upgrades

• Linux Kernel (6.6): The update includes a transition to Linux kernel version 6.6, focusing on stability and compatibility enhancements.

• Compiler (GCC 13.2): Alpine Linux now incorporates GCC version 13.2, providing developers with the latest compiler features and optimizations for software development.

• Scripting Language (Perl 5.38): The release adopts Perl version 5.38, introducing bug fixes and improvements for users working with the scripting language.

Virtualization and Database Updates

• Xen Hypervisor (4.18): Alpine Linux 3.19.0 brings an upgrade to Xen version 4.18, incorporating security, performance, and architectural enhancements.

• PostgreSQL (16): The PostgreSQL database is updated to version 16, offering users the latest features and improvements in the open-source relational database system.

• Node.js (LTS 20.10): The LTS version of Node.js is now at 20.10, providing a stable platform for server-side JavaScript applications.

• Ceph Storage (18.2): Alpine Linux includes Ceph version 18.2, enhancing distributed storage capabilities.

Notable Changes and Upgrade Notes

• Raspberry Pi 5 Support: Alpine Linux 3.19.0 introduces support for Raspberry Pi 5 .

• Kernel Consolidation: The linux-rpi4 and linux-rpi2 kernels have been replaced by a unified linux-rpi.

• Routing Scheme Update (Yggdrasil): Yggdrasil, the networking software, has been upgraded to version 0.5, featuring a new routing scheme that may require adjustments for compatibility.

• Package Management (Python): Python’s package directory is now marked as externally managed, impacting pip installations to system directories managed by apk. Users are advised to consider alternatives such as pipx .

For a comprehensive list of changes, users can refer to the release notes , git log , and bug tracker .

As always, users are recommended to use apk upgrade --available when transitioning between major versions.