LibreOffice says it 'will not add' AI features to document editor for the foreseeable future
While users can choose their own AI extensions, LibreOffice says no current add-ons meet its stringent principles.
LibreOffice, the widely-used document editor, has announced it will not incorporate AI features into its software for the foreseeable future. The Document Foundation, the organization behind LibreOffice, made this decision after receiving criticism over the lack of AI capabilities in its latest release, version 26.8. Founding member Italo Vignoli defended the company's stance, stating that while they do not oppose AI features, they are committed to delivering a smooth user experience.
Vignoli explained that no AI would be a feature of the software by default until it could be implemented in a way that adhered to the project's principles. This includes making the AI capability installable, removable, and invisible to the user. The foundation criticized other office suites, such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, for including AI features that users cannot opt-out of. To meet these standards, the developers determined that adding AI features was not a viable option at this time.
The criteria for adding AI features, as outlined by the foundation, do not represent a final rejection of the technology. Vignoli acknowledged that advancements in AI could lead to a viable solution in the future. Nevertheless, for now, LibreOffice will not include AI features by default. However, users can still choose to add extensions that may incorporate AI, while still adhering to the foundation's principles regarding privacy, provider dependency, data protection, and document formatting.
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