Linux Mint has responded to user concerns regarding compatibility with newer hardware by introducing a new set of ISO images called HWE (Hardware Enablement). These HWE ISOs are designed to tackle issues that arise during installation on modern devices. Project lead Clement Lefebvre announced that the new Linux Mint 22.3 HWE image now utilizes the Linux 6.17 kernel, allowing users access to better hardware support.
The standard Linux Mint 22.3 ISO is locked to the kernel version it was created with, specifically Linux 6.14, which may not support newer components. Therefore, users intending to install on recently released hardware should opt for the HWE ISO to avoid potential compatibility issues.
Moving forward, each new installment of HWE ISOs will include the latest kernel as it is integrated into the distribution, ensuring users are up to date. The current HWE ISO incorporates features from the Linux 6.17 kernel, which had previously been included in the Ubuntu 24.04.4 HWE release.
In the upcoming summer, a new HWE ISO featuring the Linux 7.0 kernel is scheduled to be released alongside the Ubuntu 24.04.5 HWE stack. It’s important to note that these HWE ISOs are not new versions of Linux Mint; instead, they are the existing version packed with an updated kernel. Existing users will still receive essential updates directly through standard software updates.
You can download the new HWE ISOs directly from the official Linux Mint website.