The open-source community is celebrating the release of Linux Mint 22.2, codenamed “Zara.” This is not just a standard update; it’s a long-term support (LTS) release that will be maintained with critical updates and security patches until April 2029. This commitment makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a stable, secure, and modern desktop environment.

Based on the Ubuntu Noble package base and powered by a Linux kernel 6.14, Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” introduces a host of new features and refinements that enhance the overall user experience.

What’s New in This Release? ✨

This version of Linux Mint is focused on enhancing existing applications and introducing new tools for improved functionality. Key updates include:

• Sticky Notes: The popular Sticky Notes app has been modernized with rounded corners and now supports the Wayland display server, ensuring it works seamlessly with the latest technologies.
• Hypnotix: The TV viewing application, Hypnotix, has been upgraded with new display options like “Theater Mode” and “Borderless Mode”, along with performance enhancements for faster startup and searching.
• Fingwit Fingerprint Manager: A brand-new XApp called Fingwit has been introduced for simplified fingerprint authentication. This tool allows you to easily set up your fingerprint to unlock the screen, authenticate sudo commands, and access administrative applications.
• libAdwaita Compatibility: Linux Mint 22.2 now has improved compatibility with libAdwaita, a library used by many modern applications. With this update, libAdwaita apps, including Flatpaks, will now follow your system’s theme and even adopt your chosen accent colors, creating a more cohesive look and feel.
• Visual and Performance Tweaks: The default artwork now has a subtle hint of blue, giving the desktop a softer and more modern aesthetic. Additionally, the Software Manager has an improved welcome screen to help users better understand the difference between Flatpak and system packages, and the Update Manager now provides a handy reboot button when an update requires it.

How to Get Your Hands on Linux Mint 22.2

For those eager to try out “Zara,” download links for the Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE editions are available for both direct download and torrent. If you’re already running Linux Mint 22 or 22.1, you can follow the specific upgrade instructions on the official Linux Mint blog to update your system.

Before installation, remember the recommended system requirements: 4GB of RAM and 100GB of disk space for the best experience. Always verify the integrity of your downloaded ISO file to ensure you’re using an authentic version of Linux Mint.

For further details and download links of Linux Mint 22.2 Zara - see the official release announcement.