The forthcoming Linux Mint 22.2 (Zara) will introduce a new application named Fingwit, enabling users to utilize fingerprint authentication across various functions. Project leader Clement Lefebvre disclosed this feature in the latest monthly newsletter, highlighting Fingwit’s capacity to manage fingerprint authentication on computers equipped with fingerprint readers.
Users will be able to employ fingerprint authentication for logging into the system, unlocking the screensaver, and executing commands requiring administrative privileges, such as those needing sudo access. Fingwit operates using the widely recognized fprintd daemon and incorporates an enhanced PAM (Pluggable Authentication Modules) component that dynamically adapts authentication methods based on specific situations. For example, if a user attempts to log in with an encrypted home directory, the system can automatically transition to password entry to avoid session crashes.
Fingwit is categorized as an XApp, which allows it to function on any Linux distribution and desktop environment, not solely limited to Linux Mint. Being open-source, its source code is accessible on GitHub.
The development of fingerprint authentication for Linux Mint 22.2 has been significantly supported by the collaboration with Framework, the manufacturer of the Framework Laptop and Desktop. These devices will soon support Linux Mint as a pre-installed operating system.
In addition to Fingwit, Linux Mint 22.2 will enhance the default Mint-Y theme, integrate support for accent colors in libAdwaita apps via XDG Desktop Portal, and provide support for multiple themes. The anticipated final release is expected around June or July 2025, with a beta version soon available for testing.
For more details on the upcoming release, check the official Linux Mint announcements here.