Linux Mint 22 (Wilma) is one of the most polished, user-friendly releases to date. It brings major performance improvements, a refreshed desktop environment, and improved hardware compatibility. Mint 22 is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and features the latest Linux 6.8 kernel. It delivers a faster and smoother computing environment. This release is focused on providing users with a stable and efficient Linux experience. It includes improvements such as PipeWire replacing PulseAudio and updated Cinnamon desktop enhancements.
This guide will explain to you everything you need to upgrade and what’s new with Linux Mint 22.
Why Upgrade to Linux Mint 22?
- The new kernel provides support for modern hardware.
- PipeWire improves audio quality and stability.
- You will notice that your desktop is more responsive.
- Save space by removing unneeded language packages.
- Flatpak is now more secure by default.
- Stay connected with preinstalled applications like Matrix.
What’s New in Linux Mint 22 (Wilma)
Linux Mint 22 offers a new major release that includes performance improvements, improved interfaces, and system tools to provide a more modern Linux experience. This version offers noticeable improvements to both experienced and new users. Upgrades have been made to the core base, audio layer, desktop environment, and software manager. This is a quick overview of what’s new in Linux Mint 22 and why it’s worth upgrading.
Here’s a quick look at what’s new and why Linux Mint 22 is worth upgrading to.
1. Base Upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04 & Kernel 6.8
Linux Mint 22 was built upon the Ubuntu 24.04 base. This gives it access to more recent packages and long-term technical support. Linux Mint 22 comes with the more modern Linux kernel 6.8, which improves hardware compatibility.
2. PipeWire as the Default Audio Server
Mint 22 replaces PulseAudio with PipeWire. This offers better audio performance and lower latency. It also supports Bluetooth and professional audio workflows.
3. Refreshed Desktop Experience (Cinnamon 6.x)
Cinnamon’s flagship desktop is fine-tuned with Mint 22. Cinnamon version 6.2 brings smoother animations and improved performance. The “Nemo Actions Layout Editor”, which helps users to organize their custom right-click actions, is also included.
4. Better Language Support & Smaller Footprint
Mint 22 installs only the language packs you have selected by default. Unneeded ones are removed during installation. This allows you to add additional languages in the future without increasing your disk space.
5. GTK4 Theme Support & Visual Improvements
Linux Mint 22 has updated its theme engine to support GTK4, which gives a modern look and improved performance for GTK-based applications. The default Mint theme has been updated with flatter icons and subtle visual refinement.
6. Improved Software Manager & Flatpak Security
The Software Manager (mintinstall) is now faster, more multi-threaded, and has a cleaner preference page. Unverified Flatpaks will be disabled by default. This improves security for users who rely on Flatpak apps.
7. New XApps and Web Apps
- GNOME Online accounts GTK: This new GTK-based application allows you to connect services such as Google and Nextcloud.
- Matrix Web App: Mint comes with a web app preinstalled for the Matrix network chat, replacing HexChat as the default.
- Pix (Image viewer): Supports JXL (JPEG XL) format images, allowing for better quality images.
8. Timeshift & Backup Improvements
Mint’s Timeshift backup tool now requires confirmation before deleting snapshots. This is an important safety net for users who manage system snapshots.
9. HiDPI, Boot & Screen Improvements
Linux Mint 22 now supports HiDPI displays better, particularly during boot-up, login, and the desktop experience. Both the login screen (Slick Greeter) and the splash screen, Plymouth, have been improved visually.
10. Long-Term Support & Stability
Mint 22 has been released as an LTS and is supported through 2029. This makes it a good choice for long-term deployments or daily users.
That is all from the experience of Linux Mint 22.
Conclusion
Linux Mint 22 brings major improvements, including an upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04, a Linux 6.8 kernel with better hardware support, and PipeWire support as the default audio software. It also features a faster Software Manager and Flatpak security. Mint 22 has refreshed themes, better language handling, improved HiDPI support, and updated XApps.
