Luis Chamberlain sent out the modules changes today for the Linux 6.6 merge window. Most notable with the modules update is a change that better builds up the defenses against NVIDIA’s proprietary kernel driver from using GPL-only symbols. Or in other words, bits that only true open-source drivers should be utilizing and not proprietary kernel drivers like NVIDIA’s default Linux driver in respecting the original kernel code author’s intent.

Back in 2020 when the original defense was added, NVIDIA recommended avoiding the Linux 5.9 for the time being. They ended up having a supported driver several weeks later. It will be interesting to see this time how long Linux 6.6+ thwarts their kernel driver.

  • Ulu-Mulu-no-die@lemm.eeEnglish
    26·
    1 year ago

    Is it possible that by revealing their drivers they would also reveal something about their industry designs?

    I mean, just building the hardware and letting the community do all the work on drivers for free would be better, if they don’t do it there must be a valid reason I think.

    • NocturnalMorning@lemmy.world
      5·
      1 year ago

      I mean, they make money of selling the hardware from what I understand. Maybe I’m misunderstanding, and that’s the problem. Maybe they make money off the driver’s too.

    • Nibodhika@lemmy.world
      2·
      1 year ago

      Their drivers were already leaked, any secrets they were trying to hide are out in the wild, so that point is moot.