Linux Mint has released version 20.3, codenamed "Una", as a long-term support release that will receive security updates until 2025.
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Long-term support releases are for those who prefer stability over cutting-edge software and experimental features, so Linux Mint 20.3 is ideal for those who want to keep the same system without major changes for years.
Mint is one of the most popular and widely used Linux distributions available today, using an Ubuntu base along with a desktop environment called "Cinnamon" that will be more familiar to Windows users.
The reason why Mint is so popular has mainly to do with the complete out-of-the-box experience it offers, which comes with proprietary codecs, GPU drivers , and a variety of useful multimedia applications pre-installed.
These features allow users to start using the Linux distribution without installing too many other packages.
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New in this version
The highlights in Linux Mint 20.3 are as follows:
- Dark mode is now ubiquitous in DE apps and components, providing a more consistent user experience.
- The Hypnotix IPTV player received a UI upgrade and a new search feature.
- A new Document Manager called "Thingy" was introduced, which includes reading progress history.
- The Sticky Notes app now has a search feature.
- All themes have been modified for a modernized look and feel and optimized for dark mode.
- The printing and scanning system has been upgraded to support recent HP models.
- The PDF reader Xreader now has a manga reading function.
- Cinnamon 5.2 has integrated the calendar and added event management functionality with broader synchronization integration capabilities (Evolution, Google Calendar, Mozilla Thunderbird).
If the Cinnamon desktop environment isn't to your taste, Linux Mint 20.3 is also available in two other options, MATE and XFCE.
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MATE is a fork of GNOME 2, a desktop environment that was discontinued ten years ago, so it's suitable for those who prefer an older look but with GTK 3 support.
XFCE is a lightweight and fast desktop environment that thrives on balancing a modern look with simplicity in form and function.
If you are already using Linux Mint and are looking for instructions on how to upgrade to the latest version, follow the steps in the official Mint guide.
Aside from some quirks and breakages related to issues that are easy to fix, most users who upgraded over the weekend report that it went well.
To download the latest ISO and perform a clean install, which is the recommended way to upgrade, use one of the mirrors provided in the new release announcement.
Information source: bleepingcomputer.com
