Devtools must be open source (exe.dev)
My comment on Devtools must be open source (exe.dev) — Hacker News. One of the arguments for open source software for end-users has always been the freedom to examine and modify how that software works. The reality for most people - even expert programmers - has been that the freedom is more about being able to lean on other people to do that. Most people can't justify the time commitment needed…
Several developers are advocating for open source software, emphasizing the freedom to examine and modify the code. However, for most individuals, even experienced programmers, the practical benefit of this freedom often lies in leveraging the contributions of others. The time required to read and modify code for tools they frequently use is typically not justified.
With the advent of large language models (LLMs), this dynamic has shifted significantly. The author, frequently prompting the Claude chatbot to clone software from GitHub and explain its operation, finds the initial friction of getting the software to compile negligible. Previously, this effort had been too significant to warrant the effort. Now, with tools like Codex or Claude Code, compiling the software takes only a few minutes, allowing the user to quickly assess how the software functions.
While the author does not routinely modify the software they use, they perceive a path towards greater engagement with the code. This perspective, shared by Simon Willison on August 3rd, 2026, underscores the transformative impact of LLMs on the feasibility of open source software development. The author invites support for $10/month to receive a curated email digest of the month's most important developments in large language models.
Written by urgent.news from Simon Willison's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Devtools must be open source blog.exe.dev
