## Experimental ROS Noetic, Python 3, Ubuntu 20.04 Development Branch
## ROS Noetic Development Branch
This is an experimental development branch that we are using to port *stretch_ros* to ROS Noetic, Python 3, and Ubuntu 20.04. We plan to begin shipping this version preinstalled on Stretch RE1 robots at the end of the summer of 2021. It is close to being in a usable state, but **we don't recommend trying it yet**. First, there has been limited testing of this port, so standard use may result in unexpected behaviors. Second, the installation **requires Ubuntu 20.04 on a second partition** of your robot's hard drive. As such, it's a significant installation process.
This is a development branch that we are using to port *stretch_ros* to ROS Noetic, Python 3, and Ubuntu 20.04. We plan to begin shipping this version preinstalled on Stretch RE1 robots at the end of the summer of 2021. It is in a usable state, but has known limitations that we've listed below. It is also unstable, since we are actively conducting development in this branch. Since we have performed limited testing, you may encounter unexpected behaviors. Also, installation **requires Ubuntu 20.04 on a second partition** of your robot's hard drive.
In the near future, we expect to begin using this port internally at Hello Robot to continue refining it while adding new capabilities. We also expect some customers who have requested this port to begin trying it out. For users who wish to test out the Noetic port, please see the [installation guide](install_noetic.md). **This guide is in active development as well. Please proceed with caution.**
We are beginning to use this port internally at Hello Robot to test it, improve it, and add new capabilities. We also anticipate that some customers will begin working with this development branch. If you wish to try it, please see the [installation guide](install_noetic.md). **Both this branch and the installation guide are in active development. Please proceed with caution.**
If you do begin using this branch, **please file issues here and ask general questions on the [forum](forum.hello-robot.com)**.
**Please file issues here and ask general questions on the [forum](forum.hello-robot.com)**.