The Evolution of the Linux Kernel and its Ecosystem
In this fascinating interview from the Open Source Summit in Vienna, Austria, Swapnil Bhartiya sits down with Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux, for a candid conversation about the evolution of the kernel, the open-source community, and the ever-changing tech landscape. Years have passed since their last encounter, and much has changed in the world of technology.
Linus, in his characteristically straightforward manner, discusses his current role in kernel development, which he describes as primarily a "connection point" and occasional "bad guy" who rejects poorly written code. He emphasizes the smooth operation of kernel development, attributing it to the maturity of the ecosystem and the community's proficiency in problem-solving.
When asked about the widespread adoption of Linux, Linus reiterates his long-held stance of not being concerned with market share numbers. He values widespread use primarily for its ability to uncover bugs and reveal new use cases that drive further development. He humorously acknowledges his "big enough ego" without needing external validation.
The Changing Landscape of Kernel Development
The conversation shifts to the changing dynamics of the kernel community. Linus observes a shift from individual contributors to large organizations with specific needs. While this has led to more professional and well-defined requirements, he admits a slight nostalgia for the "wild west" days of early Linux development.
Linus acknowledges the growth of the kernel community, from tens of core developers to hundreds, and thousands of contributors. This expansion has necessitated a more structured approach, with a hierarchy of trust and responsibility. He expresses a desire for more maintainers to alleviate the workload and stress associated with the role.
The Future of the Kernel and Open Source
Linus addresses concerns about the aging kernel community and the need for fresh talent. He believes the inherent technical challenge and career opportunities associated with kernel development continue to attract new maintainers. He also touches on specific areas of concern, such as the microcontroller world, where Linux faces challenges due to its size. He predicts that any successor in this niche will likely be open source.
The discussion delves into the prevalence of open source and the challenge of fostering good open-source citizenship. Linus acknowledges the existence of "free riders" but doesn't view them as a significant threat. He emphasizes the trade-off: those who don't contribute miss out on influencing the project's direction.
Linus's Personal Perspective and Work-Life Balance
Linus shares his personal preferences for email-based communication over synchronous meetings, citing his aversion to interruptions and the asynchronous nature of kernel development. He humorously mentions his preference for bathrobes, but the underlying reason is his focus on maintaining a productive workflow.
When asked about new projects, Linus expresses contentment with his current tools and focuses on Git and Subsurface. He highlights the transformative role of web browsers in making the Linux desktop more relevant.
Linus discusses his approach to emerging technologies like AI, expressing interest while simultaneously criticizing the hype cycle. He prefers to focus on long-term value over short-lived trends. He cites the Raspberry Pi as an example of a technology that, while not revolutionary in itself, democratized access to hardware and empowered a new generation of makers.
Finally, Linus touches on his appreciation for electric vehicles (EVs), driven by his dislike of combustion engines and the instant torque of electric motors. He views cars as appliances, prioritizing comfort and convenience. He concludes by mentioning his enduring hobbies of reading (mostly "disgusting crap") and scuba diving.
This insightful interview provides a glimpse into the mind of Linus Torvalds, his pragmatic approach to technology, and his unwavering commitment to the Linux kernel. His candidness and dry humor make for a compelling read, offering valuable perspectives on the past, present, and future of open source and the tech industry.