Linux kernel devs drop obligatory confession of AI tool usage
Torvalds says contributors must understand their code, whatever tools they use
After extensive discussions at the Maintainers Summit, the Linux kernel community has decided to end the requirement for developers to disclose if they utilized AI tools while contributing to the kernel. Linux kernel chief Linus Torvalds disapproves of intrusive AI disclosure policies, as long as participants understand the code they submit.
The decision comes after a proposal for an "Assisted-by" tag, which would inform readers of AI involvement in patch creation, was introduced in July 2025 and included in documentation in January 2026. This change came as Linus Torvalds grew more accepting of AI-assisted coding, believing that Large Language Models (LLMs) are now capable of producing code of sufficient quality for the Linux kernel community.
However, concerns about error detection, accountability, and copyright infringement still persist. Some developers argue that the removal of the tag requirement could lead to submitters questioning the need for disclosure altogether. Despite these concerns, the community has decided to adopt a cautious approach, acknowledging that AI will continue to be used in various capacities and that enforcement of strict rules is unlikely to be effective.
Written by urgent.news from The Register Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
