The recent discussion between Linus Torvalds and Kent Overstreet, the author of Bcachefs, has resulted in Linus decisively excluding the BCACHEFS code from the Linux kernel 6.17. Linus also accepted changes in bcachefs for Nuclei 6.16, which led to further disagreements with Kent. Linus stated, “I believe that our paths will diverge in the 6.17 merge window. You have made it clear that I cannot question any error fixes and must simply accept everything. I do not feel comfortable being involved in all this, and it seems the only thing we agree on is that ‘we’re done.'”
The exchange of messages between Kent and Linus prior to this announcement was done privately, and specific details remain unclear. Kent wrote that it is possible that private correspondence was misinterpreted, and he does not believe that Bcachefs should be completely removed from the kernel. However, he is willing to discontinue the inclusion of Bcachefs in the main Linux kernel, although this decision would pose significant challenges. If Bcachefs is removed, development will continue and the file system will be distributed as a DKMS module. Kent acknowledged that while excluding bcachefs from the kernel may pacify Linus, it will not be the optimal solution for users and the developer community.
The ongoing disputes between Kent and Linus stem from repeated violations of the protocols for submitting changes and bug fixes to the kernel. Kent advocates for swift and unimpeded progress in fixing issues within the kernel. On the other hand, Linus maintains that significant functional changes and extensive bug fixes should only be introduced in the early stages of developing a new kernel branch, while subsequent releases should primarily focus on error corrections. Kent frequently flouts these guidelines by submitting substantial changes at inappropriate times, leading to discontent from Linus and fueling further disagreements.
Previously, Linus had cautioned Kent about his tendency to work independently without collaborating and adhere to the established rules for kernel developers. In the case of version 6.16 of the kernel, Kent attempted to include a set of patches in the RC3 release.