The Ubuntu-based distro currently includes Hexchat in its default software set. IRC isn’t as trendy as Discord or Telegram but it is a free, ope

Linux Mint is Building a New Desktop Chat App

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2024-06-22 13:30:03

The Ubuntu-based distro currently includes Hexchat in its default software set. IRC isn’t as trendy as Discord or Telegram but it is a free, open standard that no single entity controls, is relatively low-bandwidth, interoperable, and efficient.

The dilemma being: “should we continue shipping an IRC client, and what role does it serve?” and the opportunity being: “could we replace it with something better?”.

Ever wondered why Linux Mint comes with an IRC client preinstalled? It’s mainly to offer a way for users of the distro to talk to, ask questions, and get support from other users of the distro in (relative) real time.

That sort of chat doesn’t have to happen over IRC, of course. Linux Mint has plenty of support avenues, including a fairly well-trafficked forum.

Since its official IRC channels remain active, with users and developers using them daily to answer questions, offer support, and connect over a shared interest, should the demise of Hexchat have to mean moating of IRC entirely?