Hector Martin, a kernel developer overseeing the Asahi Linux project, which aims to port the Linux kernel to run on Apple Silicon, has announced his resignation from the kernel maintainer role following a disagreement over merging Rust code in the DMA section.
The conflicting code revolves around Rust bindings for calling DMA functions, essential for driver development. However, some kernel developers, such as Christoph Hellwig, believe that the kernel should not be responsible for maintaining this code but rather let it reside within the driver project.
After a period of disagreement among developers, Martin requested Linus to adjudicate on whether to include this patch or not. However, Martin himself faced criticism for resorting to “virtue signalling” through social media posts.
Linus expressed discontent with Martin for seeking external support online and stated that while the process may have issues, it still functions. The process should involve discussions on the patch rather than seeking online endorsements.
The Rust language holds promise for reducing security vulnerabilities in future software development, but the software community holds differing opinions. Many advocate for simplifying development by sticking to C/C++ only.
Source: The Register
TLDR: Hector Martin steps down as the Asahi Linux project lead after a dispute over merging Rust code in the DMA section of the kernel, highlighting differing views within the software community on language choice and development processes.
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