The GNU Project has released Emacs 31.1. The long-running text editor landed on August 24, 2026. This version bundles a broad set of new features. They span the terminal experience, window management, package handling, and first-run friendliness. The full list lives in the NEWS file. Here are the highlights.
Terminal users get a notable default change. Mouse control now works out of the box in a terminal. You no longer have to enable it yourself. That makes Emacs feel more modern over SSH and in a console.
Your configuration gets a tidier home for code. Emacs adds a new user-lisp/ subdirectory inside the config directory. It gives your personal Lisp files a dedicated place. That keeps custom code separate from generated settings.
Child frames now work on text frames too. Before, they were effectively a graphical feature. So terminal sessions can gain popups and floating frames as well. It narrows the gap between GUI and text-mode Emacs.
The *Completions* buffer also sees several improvements. Browsing and picking among candidates should feel smoother. Window handling improves alongside it. Commands that split windows now choose the direction more sensibly. You should fight the layout less often.
Two search buffers become editable. The *grep* and *xref* buffers now support editable modes. You can change matches right in the results. That makes bulk edits across a codebase much easier.
Package management gains a safety step. You can review the changes before installing or upgrading a package. That helps you catch surprises before they land.
Newcomers get a gentler start too. Emacs ships a new theme built for approachability. It aims to make the editor less intimidating for first-time users.
Emacs 31.1 is available now. Read the NEWS file for the complete rundown.
FAQ
When was Emacs 31.1 released? On August 24, 2026.
See also: Mastering the Linux Command Line — Your Complete Free Training Guide
What’s the biggest change for terminal users? Mouse control is now enabled by default in a terminal.
What is the new user-lisp/ directory for? It’s a dedicated spot in your config directory for personal Lisp files.
Can I edit search results directly? Yes. The *grep* and *xref* buffers now support editable modes.
Does it help review packages before updating? Yes. You can inspect a package’s changes before you install or upgrade it.
Is there anything for new users? Yes. A new theme aims to make Emacs more approachable.
Where’s the full change list? In the Emacs 31.1 NEWS file.
