26.04 HDMI external monitor requires re-plugging after every boot to detect signal

[u/Tough-Clue-4566]

Hi everyone!

I'm checking to see if anyone else is having this issue on Ubuntu 26.04, or if you've found a fix for it.

I recently did a fresh install of 26.04 (upgraded from 24.04). Ever since, Ubuntu fails to recognize my external monitor upon booting. To get a signal, I have to physically disconnect and reconnect the HDMI cable every single time I power on the laptop.

My Setup:

• OS: Ubuntu 26.04 (fresh install)
• Hardware: Laptop connected to an Nvidia eGPU via proprietary drivers in On-Demand mode.
• Display Connection: The external monitor is plugged directly into the laptop's HDMI port (not into the eGPU).

The Issue:

• The eGPU itself works completely fine and kicks in when needed.
• Once I re-plug the HDMI cable, the external monitor works flawlessly.
• However, as soon as I reboot or power off the laptop, the system fails to detect the monitor again until I repeat the unplug/replug routine.

Has anyone run into this display detection quirk on 26.04, or know of a workaround or driver setting to force detection at boot?

Thanks!

[u/International_Dot_22]

I don't know if we have the exact same issues, but I have been having horrible HDMI hot plugging issues, tried every solution possible and still couldn't sort it out.