Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia,” the latest point release in the Linux Mint 22.x series, was released on January 16, 2025, and is now available for download. Built on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat) and powered by Linux kernel 6.8, this Long Term Support (LTS) release will receive updates until 2029. Available in three desktop environments—Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce—Linux Mint 22.1 offers a polished, Windows-like experience with new features, enhanced performance, and improved security. Whether you’re transitioning from Windows or seeking a reliable Linux distro, Linux Mint 22.1 delivers a user-friendly desktop with modern capabilities. Here’s what’s new and how to get started.
Quick Links
Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia” System Requirements
- RAM: 2GB (4GB recommended for comfortable usage)
- Disk Space: 20GB (100GB recommended)
- Resolution: 1024×768 (on lower resolutions, press ALT to drag windows if they don’t fit the screen)
Note: Linux Mint 22.1 is 64-bit only; 32-bit ISOs are no longer provided.
Key Features in Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia”
Linux Mint 22.1 refines the desktop experience with updates to the Cinnamon desktop, security enhancements, and quality-of-life improvements. Below are the highlights:
Cinnamon 6.4: Smarter and More Accessible
The flagship Cinnamon 6.4 desktop environment introduces:
- Audio Overamplification Option: Easily accessible in Settings > Sound, allowing volume boosts beyond 100% for quiet media (use cautiously to avoid speaker damage).
- Improved Wayland Support: While still experimental and defaulting to X11, Wayland sessions are more stable, with better avatar support in applets and keybinding search functionality.
- Workspace Switcher Fix: Middle-clicking a workspace no longer deletes it, preventing accidental data loss.
These updates make Cinnamon smoother and more intuitive, especially for users on modern hardware.
Streamlined Wallpaper Management
Linux Mint 22.1 simplifies desktop backgrounds:
- Reduced Wallpaper Count: Removes older wallpapers grouped by codenames (e.g., “Wilma”), replacing them with a curated “Wallpapers” group featuring vibrant, abstract designs.
- Future Expansion: More themed sets are planned for Linux Mint 22.2 (expected July 2025).
This change declutters the interface, making it easier to choose a fresh look for your desktop.
Enhanced Security with Flatpak Controls
Linux Mint 22.1 continues to prioritize security:
- Unverified Flatpaks Disabled: The Software Manager hides unverified Flatpak apps by default, with a toggle to enable them in settings. Unverified apps are marked in red to highlight potential risks.
- Thunderbird as Native DEB: Maintained by Mint as a .deb package, avoiding Ubuntu’s Snap version for better performance and integration.
These measures protect users from malicious software while maintaining flexibility for advanced users.
PipeWire as Default Sound Server
PipeWire replaces PulseAudio, offering:
- Lower Latency: Improves audio performance for gaming, video editing, and streaming.
- Better Bluetooth Support: Enhances compatibility with wireless devices.
- Improved App Integration: Seamlessly handles audio across modern applications.
This upgrade ensures a robust audio experience, aligning with 2025’s demand for multimedia versatility.
Optimized Language Support
Language handling is more efficient:
- Post-Installation Cleanup: Removes unused language packs (except English and your selected language) after installation, saving disk space.
- Preloaded Language Packs: Includes English, German, Spanish, French, Russian, Portuguese, Dutch, and Italian on the ISO, requiring no internet for these languages.
This optimization reduces storage needs and streamlines setup for global users.
Preinstalled Software Suite
Linux Mint 22.1 comes with updated applications:
- LibreOffice 24.2: For office productivity
- Firefox 137: For secure web browsing with HEVC playback support
- Thunderbird 128: For email and calendaring
- GIMP 2.10.38: For advanced image editing
- Matrix Web App: For secure, decentralized chat
These tools make Linux Mint 22.1 ready for work, creativity, and communication out of the box.
Additional Enhancements
- GTK4 Theme Support: Mint-Y and Mint-X themes now support GTK4, ensuring smooth animations and touchscreen compatibility.
- HiDPI Improvements: Crisp visuals on 4K displays with better scaling for icons, fonts, and window borders.
- Nemo Layout Editor: Customize the Cinnamon file manager’s toolbar and views for intuitive file management.
- Bug Fixes: Over 200 bug fixes from the Linux Mint 22 beta, including improved multi-threading in the Software Manager and better hardware compatibility.
For a full list of changes, check the official release notes.
How to Download and Install Linux Mint 22.1
- Download the ISO: Visit the Linux Mint download page to grab the ISO for Cinnamon, MATE, or Xfce. Verify the image using the provided SHA256 checksum and GPG signature to ensure authenticity.
- Create a Bootable USB: Use tools like Balena Etcher or Rufus to create a bootable USB drive.
- Install or Try Live Mode: Boot from the USB to try Linux Mint in live mode or proceed with installation. Follow the guided installer for a fresh setup.
- Backup First: Always back up important data before installing to avoid potential loss.
Tip: Cinnamon is ideal for modern hardware, while MATE and Xfce are lighter, perfect for older systems.
How to Upgrade to Linux Mint 22.1
If you’re running Linux Mint 22 “Wilma,” upgrading to 22.1 is simple: Open update manager -> Edit -> Upgrade to Linux Mint 22.1 Xia and follow on screen instructions.
Backup Your System: Use Timeshift to create a system snapshot. Launch Timeshift from the application menu, configure it, and save a snapshot.
Install the Upgrade Tool: Open a terminal and run: sudo apt install mintupgrade
Check for Upgrades: Run sudo mintupgrade check to verify the availability of Linux Mint 22.1.
Start the Upgrade: Launch the Upgrade Tool via sudo mintupgrade and follow the on-screen instructions.
Reboot: Restart your system after the upgrade completes.
Note: Upgrades may not be immediately available on release day to allow for stability testing. If the upgrade isn’t detected, ensure mintupdate and mint-upgrade-info are updated, or switch to default repositories in Update Manager.
For users on Linux Mint 21.3, upgrade to Linux Mint 22 first using the official upgrade guide, then proceed to 22.1.
Why Choose Linux Mint 22.1?
Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia” is a beginner-friendly yet powerful alternative to Windows, offering:
- Ease of Use: A familiar, Windows-like interface across Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce.
- Performance: Optimized for both modern and older hardware with PipeWire and kernel 6.8.
- Security: Native DEB packages and restricted Flatpaks ensure a safer experience.
- SEO Benefits: A fast, reliable OS supports web development and content creation, aligning with Core Web Vitals for better site rankings.
Download Linux Mint 22.1 today from the official website and experience a refined, open-source desktop. For detailed insights into its features, read the Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia” What’s New page or explore community discussions on Reddit’s r/linuxmint.
FAQs About Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia”
Q: What’s new in Linux Mint 22.1 compared to 22?
A: Linux Mint 22.1 introduces Cinnamon 6.4, simplified wallpaper management, improved Wayland support, and numerous bug fixes, enhancing stability and user experience.
Q: Can I upgrade from Linux Mint 21.3 directly to 22.1?
A: No, you must first upgrade to Linux Mint 22 using the mintupgrade tool, then proceed to 22.1. Always back up with Timeshift before upgrading.
Q: Is Linux Mint 22.1 good for beginners?
A: Yes, its Windows-like interface, preinstalled apps, and intuitive tools make it ideal for those new to Linux, while experts appreciate its flexibility.
Q: Does Linux Mint 22.1 support modern hardware?
A: Powered by Linux kernel 6.8 and following Ubuntu’s HWE series, it offers excellent support for new processors, GPUs, and devices.
Q: How does Linux Mint 22.1 improve security?
A: It disables unverified Flatpaks by default, uses native DEB packages for Thunderbird, and includes PipeWire for secure audio handling.
