Linus Torvalds: No Kernel 3.0
Linux inventor Linus Torvalds says there's no need for Kernel 3.0.
You don't have to increase the version number to show how good you are, says Linus Torvalds. He does not anticipate work on version 3.0 of the Linux kernel starting in the near future. "We've been very good at introducing even pretty big new features without impacting the code-base in a disruptive manner, and without breaking any old functionality." says Torvalds, promising that there will not be a "get the new and improved version 3" campaign.
The current course of development with short release cycles is very close to the developer kernel, and this helps to avoid issues. A multiple year cycle for kernel development would not work. Although this model was necessary for awhile, as the kernel programmers had to make a few radical changes, version 2.6 of the kernel codebase is in good shape. The improved development process makes it unnecessary to revert to the "change everything" model.
Although Torvalds is very happy with kernel development he is unhappy with support from some hardware manufacturers. When asked what he would say to manufacturers who refuse to provide specifications and data sheets for kernel development, Torvalds is quoted as responding "Is "I hope you all die a painful death" too strong?", before going on to say that it was good news that the numbers of hardware vendors who cooperate with the Open Source community is growing, and praising Intel in particular.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.
-
XZ Gets the All-Clear
The back door xz vulnerability has been officially reverted for Fedora 40 and versions 38 and 39 were never affected.
-
Canonical Collaborates with Qualcomm on New Venture
This new joint effort is geared toward bringing Ubuntu and Ubuntu Core to Qualcomm-powered devices.
-
Kodi 21.0 Open-Source Entertainment Hub Released
After a year of development, the award-winning Kodi cross-platform, media center software is now available with many new additions and improvements.
-
Linux Usage Increases in Two Key Areas
If market share is your thing, you'll be happy to know that Linux is on the rise in two areas that, if they keep climbing, could have serious meaning for Linux's future.
-
Vulnerability Discovered in xz Libraries
An urgent alert for Fedora 40 has been posted and users should pay attention.
-
Canonical Bumps LTS Support to 12 years
If you're worried that your Ubuntu LTS release won't be supported long enough to last, Canonical has a surprise for you in the form of 12 years of security coverage.
-
Fedora 40 Beta Released Soon
With the official release of Fedora 40 coming in April, it's almost time to download the beta and see what's new.
-
New Pentesting Distribution to Compete with Kali Linux
SnoopGod is now available for your testing needs
-
Juno Computers Launches Another Linux Laptop
If you're looking for a powerhouse laptop that runs Ubuntu, the Juno Computers Neptune 17 v6 should be on your radar.