Linux Kernel Project · 2026-04-11 · major
Linux Kernel Publishes Official Policy on AI-Generated Code
The Linux kernel now officially permits AI-assisted code with a new 'Assisted-by' tag format. AI tools cannot add Signed-off-by tags; humans must review, certify, and take full responsibility.
The world's most important open-source project now has official rules for AI-written code contributions.
What is it?
A new document merged into the Linux kernel's documentation tree (coding-assistants.rst) establishes formal guidelines for using AI coding tools in kernel development. After months of community debate, the maintainers settled on a pragmatic middle ground: AI tools are welcome, but with strict accountability rules.
How does it work?
The policy introduces an 'Assisted-by' tag format (Assisted-by: AGENT_NAME:MODEL_VERSION [TOOLS]) that must accompany any AI-assisted patch. AI agents cannot add the legally binding 'Signed-off-by' tag that certifies the Developer Certificate of Origin. The human submitter must understand every line, defend design choices during review, and ensure GPL-2.0-only compatibility.
Why does it matter?
The Linux kernel is the foundation of Android, most cloud servers, and the majority of the world's infrastructure. Its stance on AI code sets a precedent that other major open-source projects will follow. The 'yes to Copilot, no to slop' framing gives the broader open-source community a template for handling AI contributions.
Who is it for?
Kernel contributors, open-source maintainers, and anyone building AI-code-review policies.