Linus Torvalds talks AI, Rust adoption, and why the Linux kernel is 'the only thing that matters'
Linus Torvalds talks AI, Rust adoption, and why the Linux kernel is 'the only thing that matters'
In a wide-ranging conversation with Verizon open-source officer Dirk Hohndel, 'plodding engineer' Linus Torvalds discussed where Linux is today and where it may go tomorrow.
cross-posted from: https://lemmy.sdf.org/post/21338325
Summary of Linus Torvalds and Dirk Hohndel's Conversation at Open Source Summit China Key points discussed by Torvalds and Hohndel:
- Linux Kernel Development:
- Release process: Torvalds discussed the structured and rhythmic nature of the current release process, contrasting it with the chaotic early days.
- Future plans: Torvalds expressed a focus on shorter-term goals and the ongoing work to address fundamental issues like memory management.
- Security: Torvalds emphasized that security vulnerabilities are simply bugs and encouraged users to stay updated with the latest stable kernel releases.
- Rust integration: Torvalds expressed disappointment in the slow adoption of Rust due to factors like resistance from older kernel developers and instability in Rust infrastructure.
- AI and Open Source:
- Potential benefits: Torvalds saw potential for AI tools to assist in code review and bug detection.
- Positive impact: Torvalds noted the increased involvement of companies like Nvidia in kernel development due to the rise of AI.
Overall, the conversation highlighted the ongoing evolution of the Linux kernel, the importance of security and updates, and the potential impact of emerging technologies like AI on open-source development.
You heard it here first folks. Linus said that AI is saving Linux, since it's in NVIDIA's interest to support the OS and AI will make Linux adoption less of a boogeyman.
Just remember, Linus said it not me!
Edit: not to imply that I said, or believe this. I'm just kind of surprised that he would (although the NVIDIA point seems spot on)
openQA from SUSE is proof that advanced automation tools can be extremely useful to developers. It would not be surprising if "AI" hardware and software is used for this and things like it in the future.
security vulnerabilities are simply bugs
I don't know how he can still maintain this clearly insane stance. Pride?
Torvalds expressed disappointment in the slow adoption of Rust due to factors like resistance from older kernel developers and instability in Rust infrastructure.
This is a good sign at least!
potential for AI tools to assist in code review and bug detection
Definitely agree here. One thing I really liked that I saw a while ago is colour coding code based on how "surprising" each token was to the LLM, the idea being bugs would be more surprising. Neat idea. It didn't seem to actually work very well but maybe it could be improved.
Biggest issue I have is that no company I've worked for is ever going to be ok with sending our code to some AI company's servers, and the options for local models are super limited. So I can't actually use any of this stuff except for hobbies.
- Linux Kernel Development:
Old timers resisting rust in the kernel because it's not what they know... Understandable, but to the detriment of the kernel and its community.
This is why the Linux Foundation investing just 2% of its influx on the kernel is a problem. The kernel dev community could be brimming with new blood. Instead, the old guard has to keep the lights on because the aren't enough successors.