Feature Requests & Feedback from a 5-Year Mint User (UI, Connectivity, Power & Local Mirrors) Body:

[kakapoudel]

Hello Clem and the Linux Mint Team,

I am writing to you after exclusively using Linux Mint for the last five years. I enjoy the operating system so much that I have installed it on all of my workstations.

Regarding the team's recent decision to extend the release cycle—I completely agree with this direction. We don't need a new OS every six months. Giving the team more time to focus on stability and refining the core experience is a great move.

With the extra development time available, I would love to share a few requests and thoughts from my experience:

Release & Naming Cadence: While an extended OS release cycle is great, perhaps the Cinnamon desktop updates could be pushed slightly faster (e.g., every 5 months) so users get fresh visual overhauls sooner. Updates also don't need to be held back until Christmas. Additionally, you could consider simplifying the naming convention by tying the Linux Mint/LMDE version directly to the Cinnamon version (e.g., Linux Mint 6.7 or LMDE Gigi 6.7).

Bluetooth & Connectivity: The Bluetooth software could use a modern design overhaul, specifically for connected device icons. I would love to see a dedicated, comprehensive "Connections" section in the System Settings that includes easier Bluetooth and USB tethering options.

Desktop & UI Enhancements: A native, modern "icon-only" start menu option would be incredible for minimalist desktop setups. It would also be highly useful to add a grid/icon view mode inside the Update Manager.

Power & Security Options: Adding granular battery-saving tools (like dropping brightness down to 1%) would benefit laptop users. For security, unifying fingerprint, PIN, password, and facial recognition into a single "Sign-in Options" section would modernize the login experience.

Local Infrastructure (Nepal Mirrors): I noticed that the local software source mirrors for Nepal are missing, though I believe they existed a few years ago. It would be amazing if the team could consult with local ISPs/telecoms like Ncell or NTC to get these reinstated for faster local updates.

App Improvements:

    Warpinator: A UI overhaul inspired by modern local sharing tools like Quick Share or AirDrop.

    Wine: Continued focus on smooth out-of-the-box Wine integration so users migrating from Windows face fewer friction points.

    Intelligent Search Bar: A smart launcher/search bar that accepts commands (e.g., typing @firefox google.com would instantly launch Firefox directly to that URL).

What are your thoughts on these ideas?

Thank you and the entire team for your incredible work and dedication to making the best desktop operating system out there.