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Linux Mint team didn't take much time to start developing the next point release of the Linux Mint 18.x edition. Linux Mint 18.3 work is in full swing, and here is what's new in Linux Mint 18.3 until now.
New Features in development in Linux Mint 18.3
Software Manager
18.3 will get a revamped, polished, and faster 'Software Manager'. The user interface layout is now inspired GNOME, and so looks more modern, simpler, and has cleaner look.
The team also announced the application will no longer use Webkit. Instead they choose to port it to GTK3, to bring support for HiDPI.
Other much needed update is the quicker response time. The 18.3 software manager will be 3 times faster than current. Browsing categories and apps will be instant.
Under the hood, the application is ported to AptDaemon, and it now runs in user mode. Therefore, the frustrating experience of entering the root password multiple times is gone! The password authentication is remembered for a little while so you can install or remove other apps without having to enter that password again.
Other Updates
Other new features include a more configurable login screen. New options were added for automatic login as well as the ability to hide the user list and enter user names manually (this is useful for LDAP users). Panel indicators can be enabled or disabled, and now shows tooltips. Finally, Slick greeter now supports numlockx.
That's the progress until now on the upcoming Linux Mint 18.3, which is expected to launch by end of 2017. Stay tuned for more updates on its development.
