Linus Torvalds, the creator of the Linux kernel, gave a clear statement to those who oppose the use of artificial intelligence in software development processes. Torvalds emphasized that artificial intelligence is an integral module of the Linux development process and this situation will not change.

Making a statement on the Linux Kernel Mailing List, Torvalds stated that developers who do not want to use artificial intelligence tools can fork the project to continue in their own way. The experienced manager stated that it is beyond dispute that this technology is now a useful tool in development processes.

Artificial intelligence is here to stay in Linux development

Although Torvalds acknowledged that AI is not perfect, he argued that these tools should be tailored to assist developers. Although some projects have adopted strict policies against the use of artificial intelligence, the Linux community continues to prioritize technical efficiency.

Linux stable kernel release manager Greg Kroah-Hartman stated that low-quality AI outputs were problematic in the beginning, but today these tools produce very useful reports. Advanced systems such as the 2026 model Anthropic Claude Opus 4.8 prove that artificial intelligence-supported productivity is increasing in the software world.

The role of artificial intelligence in software development processes was brought to the agenda again with a policy statement published by the Software Freedom Conservancy. However, senior kernel developer Theodore Ts’o distanced himself from this view, noting that rejecting automated technologies that could disrupt technical processes.

Technical efficiency comes first

Other prominent Linux developers, such as James Bottomley, also emphasized that contributors do not have the authority to question the tools used by maintainers. Bottomley noted that one developer’s stance against the use of AI cannot restrict others’ right to use those tools.

Torvalds reminds that the Linux community develops open source software not for religious reasons, but to produce more suitable technology. Reiterating that decisions were made based entirely on technical merit, not on concerns, Torvalds clearly stated that he would ignore arguments against artificial intelligence.

How do you think the use of artificial intelligence in the software world will affect the future of open source projects?