Linux Mint XApps: Present and Future

 

Linux Mint XApps: Present and Future

Introduction

Linux Mint XApps, a project started in 2016¹, are a set of generic applications designed to work across different Linux distributions and desktop environments¹. The core idea behind XApps is to replace applications that no longer integrate properly outside of a particular environment¹. This is increasingly the case for a growing number of GNOME applications¹.

What are XApps?

XApps are designed to be desktop-agnostic, meaning they can work seamlessly across different desktop environments¹. They use modern toolkits and technologies, such as GTK3 for HiDPI support and gsettings¹. They also use traditional user interfaces, including title bars and menubars¹. The goal of XApps is not to reinvent the wheel, but to guarantee the maintenance of applications we already enjoyed and to steer their development in a direction that benefits multiple desktop environments¹.

Examples of XApps

Here are a few examples of XApps:

1. Xed: Based on Pluma, Xed acts as the default text editor¹.

2. Xviewer: Based on Eye of GNOME, Xviewer acts as the default image viewer¹.

3. Xplayer: Based on Totem, Xplayer acts as the default media player for music and videos¹.

4. Xreader: Based on Atril, Xreader acts as the default document and PDF reader¹.

Present Status of XApps

As of now, all three editions of Linux Mint come with the same XApps libraries and applications¹. The development efforts for XApps are focused on improving all desktops¹. The XApps library, libxapp, is available in Python and JS as well, through GObject Introspection¹.

Future Plans for XApps

Looking ahead, Linux Mint 22 plans to boost XApp independence². The updates include significant improvements to XApp, an independent project for creating applications that work everywhere². Linux Mint has proposed making XApp an independent project, not hosted or maintained by Linux Mint, but by people from various desktops and distributions². This would provide a space for collaboration, compatibility, and the development of applications that work everywhere, not just those needed or maintained by Linux Mint².

Conclusion

The Linux Mint XApps project represents a significant step forward in creating a more unified and seamless experience across different Linux distributions and desktop environments. By focusing on desktop-agnostic applications, XApps are paving the way for a more integrated and cohesive Linux ecosystem.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice. The Distrowrite Project is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Source: 

(1) XApps — Linux Mint Developer Guide documentation.

(2) Linux Mint 22 to Boost XApp Independence, Says No to libAdwaita.