After the release of Linux Mint 8 back in November, Clement Lefebvre and the developers behind the Linux Mint community announced last evening (December 14th) the immediate availability for download of the 64-bit edition of Linux Mint 8. This version is exactly like the main edition of Linux Mint 8 but compiled for 64-bit processors, such as Intel Core 2 Duo, Intel Core 2 Quad or Athlon X2 64. Dubbed Helena, the new Linux Mint 8 operating system is based on the Ubuntu 9.10 (Karmic Koala) operating system and it is powered by Linux kernel 2.6.31, X.Org 7.4 and the GNOME 2.28.1 desktop environment. Linux Mint 8 (Helena) comes with a brand-new theme and wallpaper, lots of updated applications and some interesting, new features for all its fans!

Highlights of Linux Mint 8 x64:

· Support for 64-bit processors;
· Based on Ubuntu 9.10;
· Linux kernel 2.6.31;
· EXT4 filesystem;
· X.Org 7.4;
· GNOME 2.28.1;
· Improvements to the Menu;
· Improvements to the software manager;
· Improvements to the update manager;
· New Upload manager tool;
· OEM installation;
· MintCast as the default podcast in Rhythmbox;
· Lots of bugs fixed.

Recommended system requirements:

· A 64-bit processor (Intel Core 2, AMD X2 64, etc.);
· 512 MB of RAM;
· 2.5 GB free hard disk space (for installation);
· VGA video card capable of at least 800x600 resolution;
· A CD-ROM drive.

What is Linux Mint? Linux Mint is an elegant, easy-to-use, up-to-date, 100% free and comfortable Linux desktop distribution based on the very popular Ubuntu operating system. It offers paid commercial support to companies and individuals. Also, free community support is available from the forums and the IRC channel.

Download Linux Mint 8 x64 right now from Softpedia.