The Linux Mint team gives each version of the operating system a different name. Linux Mint 6 was Felicia, Linux Mint 7 was Gloria, Linux Mint 8 was Helena, and the current stable version, Linux Mint 9, is affectionately called Isadora (word of Greco-Latin origin that means “gift of Isis”). What will the codename of the upcoming Linux Mint 10 be?

As Lead Linux Mint Developer Clem Lefebvre explained, the next iteration of the Linux Mint operating system will carry the codename “Julia.” Linux Mint 10 will be Julia, as in Gens Julia, one of Ancient Rome’s most ancient Patrician families and the gens of the famous Gaius Julius Caesar.

Linux Mint 10 “Julia” will be based on the upcoming Ubuntu 10.10. The beta version of Ubuntu 10.10 has been released this September. Here are some Ubuntu 10.10 Beta highlights:

- Very fast boot time.
- The option to update Ubuntu during the installation.
- You are presented with the option to download an MP3 decoder during the setup process.
- Polished new background, default icons, and other visual.
- View album artwork in a new audio menu. The menu also displays playback controls.
- Added multi-touch support.
- A refined Ubuntu Software Center that now includes "Featured" and "What's New" views to show off new applications.
- Some default applications have been replaced. For example Shotwell replaces Fspot as the default photo manager.
- Several Ubuntu One changes: a single, easier sign-on, improved looks, better syncing capabilities.
- The netbook version, Ubuntu Netbook Edition, features the Unity interface as default.
- The beta ships with GNOME 2.31.

Ubuntu 10.10 Release Candidate is scheduled to be released on the 30th of September. The final version is scheduled to be released on the 10th of October.

Linux Mint 10 Julia will be released this November.