The Python development team has successfully integrated the GIL-free code into the main branch, marking a significant step towards a truly multithreaded Python era where CPU cores can be utilized to their full potential. This code inclusion aligns with the anticipated release schedule, expected to debut in Python 3.13 or possibly Python 3.14. The overall impact of this feature addition appears minimal, yet it has caused a failure in running all test suites, particularly affecting the asyncio test suite.
The GIL, a crucial mechanism in Python, has historically hindered the ability for programs to distribute loads across all CPU cores effectively. Previous attempts have been made to address this limitation persistently. Python typically releases a new version approximately once a year, with Python 3.12 being the most recent release in October. We may need to wait a bit longer for a usable binary, but for those eager to experiment, this new code may already be integrated into tomorrow’s Python nightly build.
Source – Python
TLDR: The Python development team has successfully integrated GIL-free code into the main branch, paving the way for a more efficient multithreaded Python future, albeit facing test failures in the asyncio suite. Expect this feature in Python 3.13 or 3.14, with potential early access in the Python nightly build.
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