The latest version of the IA-64 Linux kernel has been released, bringing with it support for Intel's McKinley processor, the successor to Itanium.

That's pretty good going since McKinley isn't due to start filtering its way to server vendors until Q4, which it will replace Itanium. At that point it will be released in what Intel calls a 'pilot' programme, according to the most recent roadmap we've seen.

Apart from McKinley support, the update includes a host of other changes, including synchronisation with version 2.4.3 of the regular IA-32 Linux kernel. The changes are listed here, and brave souls with access to the relevant kit/simulators can download the kernel patch here. ®