Linus Torvalds Says Linux Kernel Is Open to AI, Tells Critics to 'Fork It'

Linus Torvalds has declared that the Linux kernel project is not opposed to artificial intelligence, making clear that AI tools are welcome in kernel development. In recent remarks, Torvalds pushed back against anti-AI sentiment in the open-source community, arguing that the project evaluates tools based on technical merit rather than ideology, as reported by OfficeChai and TechRadar.

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OfficeChai“Linux Is Not One Of Those Anti-AI Projects”: Linus Torvalds Embraces AI For Linux Kernel DevelopmentTechRadarLinus Torvalds says Linux is not "anti-AI", tells haters to 'fork it' and 'just walk away'

The discussion centered on Sashiko, an agentic AI system designed to assist with Linux kernel code review. Torvalds defended its use, saying decisions in the Linux project are made on practical grounds rather than fear of new technology, according to pcgamer.com. He emphasized his willingness to use his authority as top-level maintainer to keep the project open to AI assistance.

pcgamer.comLinus Torvalds declares Linux is not an anti-AI project, defends AI-assisted kernel code review

Addressing developers who oppose AI in kernel development, Torvalds was blunt. TechRadar reported his message to critics: "Linux is a tech project, not a social warrior project, and anti-AI developers can just 'fork it.'" :: TechRadar Torvalds added that unhappy developers should "just walk away," reinforcing that the project will not be steered by opposition to new tools.

In a characteristically wry follow-up, Torvalds noted that natural intelligence has its own flaws. According to pcgamer.com, he remarked that "natural intelligence isn't always great either," a jab at critics who argue AI cannot match human judgment. The Cyber Web Spider Blog highlighted Torvalds' stance as supporting "responsible use" of AI, with an emphasis on practical technical value.

Cyber Web Spider BlogLinux Welcomes AI with Responsible Use, Says Torvalds

By standing firm on AI adoption, Torvalds has signaled that the Linux kernel will continue to evolve with the technology landscape, prioritizing technical improvement over ideological purity. His comments underscore that the project remains driven by engineering goals rather than social movements, as multiple outlets reported.