Linus Torvalds Embraces AI Tools in Linux Development

Linux creator Linus Torvalds said AI tools have become useful in programming and kernel development, while speaking at Open Source Summit Europe in Prague, where he discussed personal coding projects, developer experience, and changes to the Linux workflow.

Torvalds said he uses AI for tasks outside his strongest areas and believes it can help new programmers engage with coding. He also warned that AI-generated work for important systems requires careful review.

"I actually really like using AI," Torvalds said during his discussion with Dirk Hohndel, head of Ericsson Software Technology.

Torvalds explained that his positive view depends on responsible use and that AI can make programming more enjoyable. He said the Linux kernel process requires a higher standard because submitted code affects a major software project.

"I think that you need to be very careful using AI when you’re doing something real and important," Torvalds said.

Torvalds described himself as a maintainer rather than the person writing most kernel code. He said AI helps him explore projects where he lacks expertise.

"I don’t do a lot of kernel programming. I’m a maintainer. The Linux kernel is a project where other people do the real work, and I act as the collection point.

But I still enjoy programming immensely. I think AI is a wonderful tool if you use it correctly and treat it as a tool, and I find it makes programming much more enjoyable," Torvalds said.

He compared modern software development with his early programming experience in 1981, when programs were simpler and easier for individual developers to understand.

"It’s a different story today. The bar in software engineering has grown so high that it’s hard to see your own small efforts as worth anything, because you’re used to all these polished, professional programs," Torvalds said.

Torvalds said AI-assisted experimentation can give beginners a way to build projects that previously would have been difficult. He described this approach as useful for finding enjoyment in programming.

"A lot of people make fun of vibe coding, but I think it’s a wonderful way to find joy in programming. It makes you feel like you’re doing something relevant. It allows you, as a new programmer, to do things that you would otherwise have a really hard time with," Torvalds said.

The Linux maintainer also discussed AI use inside kernel development. According to ZDNet, AI review systems are being used to identify security issues and problems in older code, although they also create additional work for maintainers.

"It is, I think, improving our code base… Although it is also stressing maintainers out to the point that it’s a problem," Torvalds said.

Torvalds noted that Linux development has changed from its early days, when he managed patches with a small community, into a global project requiring stronger review systems.

"I made patches every single day internally, and I released them at least weekly. And it actually worked surprisingly well for a small project," Torvalds said.

He said AI-generated code reviews and patches are likely to remain part of the development process, but maintainers need systems that reduce low-quality submissions rather than increase their workload.