Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) 7 has officially entered the public testing phase. This new version, codenamed Gigi, is based on Debian 13 “Trixie” and utilizes the long-term support Linux 6.12 LTS kernel, featuring the latest Cinnamon 6.4.12 desktop environment.
LMDE 7 inherits all the improvements and new features from Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara”, such as:
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New Fingwit application supporting fingerprint authentication;
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XDG Desktop Portal XApp provides accent color themes;
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Improved libadwaita compatibility;
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New themes and visual updates;
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Further improved Wayland sessions (experimental).
Meanwhile, all built-in applications of Linux Mint have been upgraded to stay in sync with Mint 22.2. Notably, LMDE 7 finally supports OEM installation, which means it can be pre-installed on computers shipped worldwide. Linux Mint founder Clement Lefebvre emphasized that this feature is very important for both manufacturers and users, and it also facilitates individuals when donating or selling computers.
Currently, the LMDE 7 beta version has been released through the official Linux Mint global mirror sites, supporting 64-bit systems. It is important to note that this is still a testing version and is only recommended for installation on experimental devices, not for production environments.