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.

  • @uis
    4•1 year ago

    1. They can open their code without merging into mesa

    2. They don’t want you to use “old” GPUs

      • @uis
        3•1 year ago
        1. Getting to use GPL-only symbols
        2. Still much easier for distros
        3. Example of drivers

        And again we are talling about code not being rejected as main goal.