A new version of Linux Mint 22 Codenamed “Wilma” is now available for download. Which comes with a long list of improvements, as well as extended support until 2029. As per the official blog, the latest release, which is based on Ubuntu 24.04 Long Term Support (LTS), comes in three options: MATE, Xfce, and Cinnamon which all have a Windows-like interface and GTK-based applications. Downloads for all three supported desktop environments are available on the official Linux Mint website.
For those who don’t know, Linux Mint is a popular Ubuntu-based Linux distribution that aims to make the transition from a closed world of Windows to the open pasture of Linux much easier. And Mint 22 further polishes a nearly-perfect desktop experience and adds some new features as well.
Linux Mint 22 ‘Wilma’ System requirements:
- 2GB RAM (4GB recommended for comfortable usage).
- 20GB of disk space (100GB recommended).
- 1024×768 resolution (on lower resolutions, press ALT to drag windows with the mouse if they don’t fit on the screen).
Linux Mint 22 “Wilma” Features
Linux Mint 22 comes with Linux firmware version 1.220 and the Linux kernel 6.5. As usual, three desktop environments are available Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce. If you have a new computer with the latest hardware configuration opt for the excellent Cinnamon. MATE and Xfce are solid choices too, although they are more appropriate for computers with meagre hardware.
Like all Linux desktop distros, Wilma isn’t just a comprehensive desktop operating system. It includes all the software you need. It comes with LibreOffice 7.3.7 for office productivity, Thunderbird 102.4 for email and calendaring, GIMP 2.10.30 for graphics editing and Firefox 118 for web browsing.
Talking about the features Linux Mint 22 “Wilma” introduces several enhancements and new features across various aspects of the operating system:
Linux Mint 22 is powered by the Linux 6.8 kernel
This kernel provides enhanced support for new processors, GPUs, and other hardware. The update ensures Mint can leverage the latest hardware technologies, offering better performance and power efficiency, especially on modern laptops and desktops.
Linux Mint themes updated to support GTK4
GTK4 introduces smoother animations, transitions, and better touchscreen support. The system themes, Mint-Y and Mint-X, have been optimized for GTK4, ensuring a visually appealing and consistent user interface. Mint themes now provide more contrast, making them easier on the eyes.
Faster and better looking Software Manager
The Software Manager app has been overhauled for speed. The backend has been optimized for faster package searches, while the interface is now more responsive. It also enhances Flatpak security, isolating Flatpak applications more effectively from the rest of the system. This ensures safer installations from third-party repositories, preventing malware.
Cinnamon 6.2 and Nemo Layout Editor
Cinnamon 6.2 improves performance, and memory consumption has been reduced, making it faster even on older hardware. The new layout editor in Nemo allows users to personalize the look and feel of the file manager, from adjusting toolbar positions to choosing between icon views, making file management more intuitive.
Matrix Integration
Matrix, an open-source, decentralized chat network, is integrated directly into Linux Mint 22. This makes it easy to join group chats, communicate securely, and interact with open-source communities directly from Mint. It’s particularly useful for users wanting an alternative to proprietary messaging platforms.
HiDPI Improvements
With enhanced HiDPI support, Mint 22 ensures crisp and sharp visuals on modern 4K displays. Scaling options have been expanded, allowing Mint to look great on both low and high-resolution monitors. Elements like icons, fonts, and window borders are now properly scaled, avoiding pixelation and making the desktop experience visually comfortable.
You can read detailed information on Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE editions on Linux Mint blog.
How to upgrade to Linux Mint 22
If you are already running Linux Mint 21 (or 21.1) you can follow steps below to upgrade to version 22
- Before getting started make a system snapshot so that If anything goes wrong, you can easily restore your operating system to its previous state.
- Well, you can use Timeshift to make a system snapshot.
- It’s simple and easy just Launch Timeshift from the application menu, follow the instructions on the screen to configure it and create a system snapshot.
Upgrade Linux Mint 22
- In the Update Manager, click on the Refresh button to check for any new version of mint update and mint-upgrade-info.
- If there are updates for these packages, apply them.
- Launch the System Upgrade by clicking on “Edit->Upgrade to Linux Mint 22 “Wilma”.
- Follow the On-screen instructions to upgrade to Latest Linux Mint 22
- Once the upgrade is finished, reboot your computer.
Note:
- If the upgrade is not available to you, check that you have the latest versions of mint update and mint-upgrade-info installed and restart the Update Manager.
- Also If the latest versions are not yet available in your mirrors, switch to the default repositories.
Here is a useful video Upgrading to Linux Mint 22 “Wilma”
Download Linux Mint 21.2
You can visit the Mint download page to grab the latest torrent file or ISO media for a fresh installation. Or you can click the link below to get the desired iso file.
| EDITION | ||
| Cinnamon | 64-bit | An edition featuring the Cinnamon desktop |
| MATE | 64-bit | An edition featuring the MATE desktop |
| Xfce | 64-bit | An edition featuring the Xfce desktop |
Note: The Mint team no longer provides 32-bit ISOs.
If you are using Windows 10 and looking for an alternative operating system, Linux Mint is a great starting point. Make no mistake, however, even though it is a good option for beginners, many experts use it too.
