Freeze exceptions¶
This page outlines some of the common scenarios where freeze exceptions might be wanted. You should read this page before you Request a Freeze exception.
Freezes series
- Process overview:
- Reference:
Freeze exceptions (this page)
- Practical guidance:
Feature Freeze exceptions¶
Exceptions to the Feature Freeze process must be approved by the Release
Team for all packages in the Archive (i.e. main, restricted, universe
and multiverse).
Exceptions should be granted if the upload:
Contributes to high-priority feature goals for the release
Is warranted due to other exceptional circumstances, as judged by the release managers.
ABI/API compatibility¶
ABI/API compatibility is a special case of a feature. If a library breaks backward compatibility (i.e. changes existing API/ABI and introduces a new SONAME, then this always needs approval from the Release Team, since all reverse dependencies need to be adjusted and rebuilt.
User Interface Freeze exceptions¶
User Interface Freeze exception request bugs need a justification for why the User Interface (UI) needs to be changed at that point, and give a rationale as to why the benefits of it are worth breaking existing documentation and translations.
Refer to the Request UI Freeze exception section for additional instructions for your request bug.
Final Freeze exceptions¶
During the Final Freeze period, extreme caution is exercised when considering exceptions, as a regression could cause a deadline to be missed, or a build to receive less testing than desired. A request for an exception must demonstrate strong rationale and minimal risk for the update to be considered.
Refer to the Request Final Freeze exception section for additional instructions for your request bug.
Exceptions for universe/multiverse¶
The Freeze Exception process is the same for universe/multiverse as for
main/restricted, except during the last week of development before the
release. During that time, all uploads need to get approved by the Release Team.
The instructions for request bugs for universe and multiverse are the same
as those for Final Freeze exceptions. Refer to the
Request Final Freeze exception section for details.