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Linux Mint 22.2 ‘Zara’ Launches With Fingerprint Login, Android‑Syncing Notes, and Kernel Choice

The release emphasizes long-term stability with support pledged through 2029.

Overview

  • ISOs are available now, and users on Mint 22 or 22.1 can upgrade in place via the built-in Update Manager.
  • A new Fingwit app delivers native fingerprint authentication for login, screensaver unlock, sudo prompts, and admin tasks.
  • Sticky Notes is redesigned with Wayland support and optional sync to the StyncyNotes Android companion, and the login screen adds avatars and a blur effect.
  • Fresh installs ship with Linux kernel 6.14 for broader hardware coverage, while upgrades typically keep the LTS 6.8 kernel unless users switch manually.
  • Polish includes a cooler Mint‑Y theme with accent colors that carry into Flatpak apps, a refreshed Software Manager, reboot prompts in Update Manager, and Hypnotix theater and borderless modes.