Linux Mint 22.2 ("Zara") – MATE Edition
Support Window: LTS maintenance and security updates until April 2029.
Key improvements:
- Fingwit fingerprint utility enables biometric auth (screensaver, sudo, admin apps).
- Accent color handoff to Flatpak/libAdwaita apps through updated XDG Desktop Portal integration; Mint-Y/Mint-X themes aligned.
- Visual refresh: Slightly cooler (blue‑tinted) greys; softer dark theme for better contrast and parity with upstream libAdwaita colors.
- Sticky Notes app modernized (Wayland compatibility, rounded corners).
- Hypnotix enhancements: Theater/Borderless modes for distraction‑free viewing, faster indexing/search, playback inhibits session idle.
- Bulk rename (Bulky) enumeration upgrades: leading zeros, custom start, custom step, remembers last pattern.
- Software Manager clarifies Flatpak vs native packages; Update Manager adds inline reboot control for kernel / critical updates.
