Linux 7.0 faces setback as major mmc code rejection shakes development

A significant rejection in linux 7.0 development

Despite the considerable excitement surrounding the upcoming Linux 7.0 release, a recent incident has cast a shadow over the proceedings. Linus Torvalds, the creator and maintainer of the Linux kernel, has rejected a substantial patch set intended for the Memory Card (MMC) subsystem. The rejection stems from the discovery that the code was not even capable of compiling, highlighting a significant oversight in the development process. This incident underscores the rigorous standards Torvalds maintains for kernel stability, especially in major releases.

The problem: uncompilable code & hardware support

The rejected patch aimed to introduce improvements for new NXP chip support, fixes for Kingston eMMC memory, and updates for Mediatek processors. Developers attempted to integrate these enhancements, but upon review, Torvalds discovered a multitude of errors that caused the system to crash before even starting. The issues stemmed from duplicated functions within a component called a multiplexor, leading the compiler to become overwhelmed.

Torvalds' strong response and the 'linux-next' process

Torvalds' reaction was swift and decisive. He expressed not only disappointment but also a sense of disrespect regarding the submission of such flawed code. He emphasized the existence of linux-next, a staging area where code undergoes thorough testing and refinement before being considered for the main kernel, and lamented the complete disregard for this process. He explicitly forbade resubmission of the patch for Linux 7.0.

Impact on hardware support and future timelines

This rejection means that the new hardware support and memory speed improvements will be delayed. Users awaiting enhancements for Mediatek chips or improved management of memory manufacturing dates beyond 2025 will have to wait until at least the Linux 7.1 release, expected around mid-April. Torvalds made it clear that he would not accept any “fixed” pull requests until the code has been properly vetted and tested within the linux-next environment.

Rust integration reaches a milestone in linux 7.0

Beyond this setback, Linux 7.0 is poised to mark a significant milestone: the formal integration of the Rust programming language. For over three decades, the Linux kernel has been predominantly written in C, a powerful but potentially error-prone language. Rust offers a safer alternative, preventing memory-related errors that can be exploited by hackers. After three years of testing, the community is embracing Rust as a core component of the kernel.

Spanish engineer leads the rust adoption - a new era for linux

Miguel Ojeda, a Spanish engineer, spearheaded the project and has signed the patch that symbolically concludes the Rust testing phase. This signifies a major shift in how the Linux kernel is developed, aiming to improve security and reliability. The successful integration of Rust represents a significant step forward for the Linux ecosystem, paving the way for a more robust and secure future.