Nearly six months after the release of Linux Mint 22 “Wilma,” the first update in the series, version 22.1 “Xia” is now available for download. Packed with a variety of enhancements, it solidifies the distribution’s reputation as a top contender in the Linux desktop space.
Powered by Linux kernel 6.8 and an Ubuntu 24.04 LTS package base, the Cinnamon desktop environment, the crown jewel of Linux Mint, gets a major upgrade to version 6.4 in this release. Highlights include:
- A new default theme: Darker tones, rounded corners, and increased contrast create a sleek, modern aesthetic.
- Cleaner dialogs: Redesigned confirmation dialogs and on-screen display elements provide a more intuitive and pleasant experience.
- Improved Wayland compatibility: Native dialogs (implemented in Clutter) replace outdated components, ensuring a unified user experience
Additional enhancements include smarter Alt-Tab behavior, password visibility toggles in the screensaver, and improved file management options in Nemo.
Of course, Mint isn’t just about Cinnamon—two other lightweight desktops are available in their respective 22.1 “Xia” releases. For those who prefer Xfce, version 4.18 is available. If you like the good old GNOME 2 spirit, Linux Mint 22.1 MATE ships with version 1.26 of the desktop environment.
Under the hood, one of the standout changes in Linux Mint 22.1 is the complete overhaul of APT dependencies. This essential package management system, which forms the backbone of Linux Mint, has been updated with modern tools like Aptkit and Captain, replacing older, unmaintained components like aptdaemon, GDebi, and apturl.
In addition, the Update Manager now benefits from upgraded multithreading and multiprocessing code, improved Wayland compatibility, and new graphical options for downgrading foreign packages. While these changes might fly under the radar for everyday users, they significantly contribute to the system’s reliability and flexibility.
For users looking to optimize their system’s power usage, Linux Mint 22.1 introduces new power modes. These include:
- Power-saver mode: Ideal for extending battery life and reducing heat and noise.
- Balanced mode: Automatically adjusts performance based on your needs.
- Performance mode (on supported systems): Maximizes power for resource-intensive tasks.
These modes can be accessed through the Cinnamon desktop’s Power Management settings or directly via terminal commands, offering flexibility for all user types.
Another highly welcomed new feature in Linux Mint 22.1 is Night Light, designed to reduce blue light exposure and minimize eyestrain during late-night computing. Integrated seamlessly into Cinnamon, it supports both Xorg and Wayland and automatically adjusts based on your local sunrise and sunset times.
Manual scheduling and adjustable color temperatures are also available for those who prefer customization.
Fans of Linux Mint’s vibrant wallpapers will appreciate the new themed collections, making it easier to find the perfect background. The Mint-Y theme has also been revamped, with darker tones and modern, rounded elements adding a touch of elegance.
Lastly, accessibility improvements include optimized sound settings, enhanced keyboard shortcuts, and better support for international file naming conventions.
The Linux Mint 21 “Xia” installation ISO images are now available for download from the distribution’s mirror servers. An official release announcement is expected soon.
