Mixed rockets, a landing pad unloading bay, split circuit inputs/outputs and ARM64 Linux: here is what the last major update brings – and what to check before you switch.
On October 23, 2026, Wube Software marked Factorio 2.1 as stable after a long summer on the experimental branch. According to the official release API, the current stable version is 2.1.23, including the headless server. Wube announced 2.1 back in May as its “last major update”; afterwards the focus shifts to long-term support. 2.1 adds no new planets, enemies or research trees – it is about quality of life, small features and polish (Friday Facts #449).
- Mixed rockets: A rocket can carry different items in one launch – including automated launches when it is filled manually or with inserters.
- Landing pad unloading bay: Inserters unload landing pads straight into trains, chests or belts.
- Platform balance: asteroid collisions and platform acceleration physics were adjusted so that narrow platforms no longer have an advantage (details in the 2.1.21 patch notes).
- Input/output split: Reading and writing can use different wire colors. This replaces the old self-subtraction trick.
- Space Age without Quality: The Recycler is now a separate mod, and Quality is only a recommended dependency of Space Age.
- No way back: According to Wube, saves and blueprints cannot be downgraded to 2.0 once you have updated. Back up your saves and blueprints first.
- Check old designs: 2.0 saves load, but changes such as the circuit network input/output split can affect existing circuits.
- Mods: Some mods may not be updated for 2.1 yet. Check that your most important mods are ready before updating.
- Same version for everyone: To play together, the server and all players should run the same Factorio version.
A new option: Factorio now runs natively on ARM64 Linux. Wube lists the Raspberry Pi as one headless server option. According to the announcement, 2.1 has no dedicated multiplayer changes.
With your own Factorio server from ZAP-Hosting, you build your factory together – DDoS-protected, with a web interface for all settings and FTP access for your own files. The servers are compatible with the Space Age DLC; if you do not own it, you can simply disable it in the web interface.
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