Linus Torvalds’ Keynote at the Open Source Summit
- Real-Time Linux Project: Linus Torvalds announced that the real-time Linux project has reached a stable state, which is great news for users requiring deterministic response times.
- Kernel Updates: He reminded everyone to update to the latest Linux kernel to benefit from the latest improvements and security patches.
- Rust in the Kernel: Torvalds expressed disappointment with the slow progress of integrating Rust into the Linux kernel, showing a desire for quicker updates.
- AI Skepticism and Optimism: He shared his skepticism about the current AI hype but acknowledged its potential benefits for the future.
- Praise for Nvidia: Nvidia was praised for their recent contributions and improvements in the Linux space, with Torvalds now considering them a company doing significant work for the community.
Changes in Linux Kernel Development
- Rust Maintainer Steps Down: One of the Rust maintainers for the Linux kernel has stepped down, indicating potential challenges or shifts in maintaining Rust support.
- Wedson Almeida Filho is a Microsoft engineer who has been prolific in his contributions to Rust for the Linux kernel code over the past several years. Wedson has worked on many Rust Linux kernel features and even did an experimental EXT2 file-system driver port to Rust. But he’s had enough and is now stepping away from the Rust for Linux efforts.
- bcachefs Under Consideration: Torvalds mentioned he is contemplating whether bcachefs should remain in the upstream kernel, suggesting possible changes in the kernel’s file system support.
Funding and Donations
- Sovereign Tech Fund Donation: The Sovereign Tech Fund has generously donated €686,000 to the FreeBSD project, aiding its ongoing development and stability.
- KDE Donation Prompt: KDE plans to introduce a new notification system asking users if they would like to donate to support the project, aiming to sustain and enhance its development.
New Hardware Announcements
- EmuDeck Machine: A new Linux-based console called the EmuDeck Machine is in development. This crowdfunding project aims to create a completely plug-and-play system running Bazzite, with no need for additional drivers or configurations.
- Console Models and Pricing:
- EM1 Model: Priced at €299 with early bird discounts, designed for general use.
- EM2 Model: Priced at €760, capable of playing demanding games like Cyberpunk at 60 FPS at 1080p using FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution).
- Design Inspiration: The EmuDeck Machine’s design is reminiscent of the classic Dreamcast console, adding a nostalgic appeal.
