Linus Torvalds on the kernel, GenAI, EVs, programming languages and more…

Linus Torvalds, the creator and maintainer of the Linux kernel, joined me at the recent Open Source Summit in Vienna for an insightful conversation covering a wide range of topics. He discussed his ongoing role in the Linux kernel’s development, emphasizing his focus on merging and maintaining stability.

Torvalds pointed out a significant shift in the open-source community, where development is now driven more by large companies with specific needs than by individual contributors. This change, he said, has resulted in a more structured and hierarchical approach to development. Torvalds also highlighted the importance of security, criticizing long embargoes on hardware security issues.
He expressed skepticism about the current AI hype, preferring to focus on practical applications. When it came to programming languages, Torvalds also mentioned his preference for C over Rust and his dislike for synchronous meetings, opting for asynchronous communication via email. He wrapped up by expressing his continued interest in the intersection of hardware and software development.