# Linus Torvalds supports AI integration in Linux kernel development

> **Key takeaway:** Linus Torvalds has affirmed that the Linux kernel is not an anti-AI project, prioritizing technical merits over ethical or political objections to LLM usage.

**Published:** 2026-07-23T00:00:00+00:00 
**Source:** Drew DeVault's Blog 
**Category:** pioneer-voices 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/drew-devaults-ai-in-linux.html 

## Summary
Linus Torvalds has addressed the growing debate regarding AI in the Linux kernel, stating that the project focuses on technical excellence rather than social or ethical concerns. AI is currently being used for both code authoring, evidenced by over 1,200 'Assisted-by' commits, and code reviewing via the Sashiko tool. While some contributors raise concerns regarding the environmental and social impacts of LLMs, Torvalds maintains that the kernel's direction is driven by technology.

## AI usage in the kernel workflow
- **Code Authoring**: Since September 2025, over 1,200 commits have been tagged with "Assisted-by", indicating LLM involvement in patch creation.
- **Code Review**: The **Sashiko** tool uses LLMs (primarily Google Gemini) to generate automated code reviews for various subsystems.
- **Development Philosophy**: Torvalds rejects the idea of the kernel as a "social warrior" project, arguing that technical merit should dictate tool adoption.

## Why it matters
The integration of AI review tools like Sashiko may change the contribution workflow, potentially requiring contributors to interact with AI-generated feedback to iterate on their patches.