Mysterious package for Kubuntu/Ubuntu

[Jason]

Just noticed this update today in my Kubuntu 19.04 install. Thought it was to help with an upgrade to the latest version since 19.10 will be released soon but check out the description in the attachment - it mentions Ubuntu 20.04 (click to see full size) not 19.10. Seems like they're getting ahead of themselves.

This is an example of the few instances where 'More Information' actually provides less information - it's just a generic description saying it will give you the code name for the latest stable release of your distro.

[fox]

So is the 19.10 update available yet for Kubuntu?

[Jason]

So is the 19.10 update available yet for Kubuntu?

It's not showing up yet. Does it show up like it does in Mint as a possible upgrade? I haven't been using Kubuntu enough to see the process. I think, but I'm not sure, that it is setting up the configuration of the new repositories. Have you seen anything yet for Ubuntu? My guess is there won't be an upgrade option until the final release - is the beta out yet?

[buster]

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/EoanUpgrades/Kubuntu

###### however, nothing happens yet  ######

[buster]

Just noting that no upgrade is showing on Mint Cinnamon either.

All in good time.

[Jason]

Just noting that no upgrade is showing on Mint Cinnamon either.

All in good time.

And there likely won't be for a couple of months after Ubuntu 19.10 is released. Read on for why:

Mint has its own upgrade cycle that is based on Ubuntu LTS releases which come every 2 years. The present version of LM - 19.2 is based on Ubuntu 18.04, the most recent LTS version. Linux Mint 20.x will be based on Ubuntu 20.04.

LM does include point releases that update the various desktop environments and Mint tools. Not sure if these point releases also include software updates but I think that at least select software is updated. Though these are usually released roughly every 6 months, the LM team has made clear that point releases happen when they're ready, not a rigid schedule. There will likely be a 19.3 release in December but it will still be based on Ubuntu 18.04 LTS - it will have little to do with 19.10.

Basically this means the same kernel version (bug fixes will still happen), kernel and base system for 2 years, then a new full version (i.e. 19.x to 20) which will have a new kernel and base system. LM releases, being LTS versions, are supported for 5 years as is Ubuntu LTS.