Linus Torvalds embraces AI as a programming tool

Linus Torvalds, the creator and maintainer of the Linux kernel, expressed a shift in his perspective regarding artificial intelligence during the Open Source Summit Europe. While many in the open-source community remain skeptical or have even banned AI-generated content in certain projects, Torvalds stated that he now finds AI to be a “wonderful tool” when used correctly.

Torvalds noted that he previously believed AI was not very effective for programming, but his view has evolved. He emphasized that AI should be treated strictly as a tool rather than a replacement for human judgment, particularly when working on “something real and important.”

Although his primary role is that of a maintainer—acting as a collection point for the work of other developers—Torvalds continues to enjoy programming. He suggested that AI can make the process more enjoyable and serve as a “gateway drug” for new programmers, helping them tackle complex tasks that might otherwise be difficult to navigate in the modern era of high-standard software engineering.