The login screen has received a visual update with a blur effect and supports user avatars, while the media player Hypnotix has been improved with additional Theater and Borderless modes, enhancing its usability. A new XApp called Fingwit enables fingerprint authentication, automatically detecting compatible fingerprint readers and configuring them for use. The update also includes patches for LibAdwaita, allowing it to better align with various themes, and improvements to XApps such as color correction and enhanced thumbnail support for audio files.
Linux Mint 22.2 is a long-term support release, set to be supported until 2029, and is designed to provide a refined and feature-rich desktop environment. Users are encouraged to test the beta and provide feedback, with the understanding that this version may contain critical bugs.
Extended Overview
As Linux Mint continues to evolve, the beta release of version 22.2 marks a significant step forward in terms of functionality and user interface enhancements. The emphasis on aesthetic improvements, such as the rounded corners in sticky notes and the blurred login screen, reflects a growing trend in software design focused on user experience. The addition of StyncyNotes is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges the gap between desktop and mobile note-taking, offering users a seamless way to access their notes across different devices.
Furthermore, the introduction of Fingwit highlights Linux Mint's commitment to modern authentication methods, aligning with industry standards for security. The performance improvements in Hypnotix and the Software Manager indicate a focus on optimizing the overall system performance, making the software more efficient and user-friendly.
As this beta version is intended for testing, users are urged to report any bugs through GitHub, providing developers with valuable insights to enhance the final release. The Linux Mint team emphasizes the importance of accurate bug reporting, as understanding the conditions under which bugs occur is crucial for effective troubleshooting and resolution.
Looking ahead, users can anticipate that the stable release of Linux Mint 22.2 will incorporate the feedback gathered during the beta phase, leading to a more polished and robust operating system. The transition from the beta version to the stable release will also allow users to upgrade easily from previous versions, ensuring a smooth migration path for existing users.
In summary, Linux Mint 22.2 "Zara" promises to deliver a refined user experience with its new features and improvements, while also inviting community participation in the testing phase to ensure a quality final product
Linux Mint 22.2 Beta released
The beta version of Linux Mint 22.2 has been released for testing and brings several new features and improvements to make the desktop experience more comfortable. Key features include rounded corners in sticky notes, compatibility with Wayland, and a new d-bus method for reloading notes. StyncyNotes, an Android companion app, allows users to sync notes between Linux and Android. The login screen now features a blur effect, avatars, and user avatar support. Hypnotix now supports two additional modes, Theater Mode and Borderless Mode, and receives performance improvements. Fingwit, a new XApp dedicated to fingerprint authentication, detects if a computer has a fingerprint reader and configures the system to use fingerprint authentication. LibAdwaita has been patched to work with themes, and libAdwaita apps follow the theme. XApps improvements include configurable EDID-based color correction, a new thumbnailer for cover art in.aiff audio files, and improved web app description fields. The Software Manager welcome screen and Software Manager help have been added, and the update manager now shows a reboot button.