Jon Seager, Vice President of Engineering at Canonical and Technical Lead of the Ubuntu project, summarized the plans for integrating functionality based on large language models into the distribution. In the first phase, Ubuntu developers aim to utilize AI models to enhance existing functionalities of the distribution, after which separate AI features and workflows for users interested in leveraging AI will be added. AI capabilities will gradually be integrated into the distribution throughout 2027, implemented at a comfortable pace and without compulsion.
When selecting AI tools, preference will be given to open models distributed under licenses that align with the spirit of the distribution, as well as AI platforms based on open source. By default, AI models will run locally. Integration with external cloud AI systems will be offered as an option, controlled by the user.
It is emphasized that the goal of the initiative is not to turn Ubuntu into an AI product or to promote AI for the sake of AI, but to selectively integrate AI capabilities into the distribution where it will genuinely benefit users. For those who do not wish to use AI, the option to disable AI capabilities will be provided. Examples of AI applications include voice command processing, diagnosis of network and system issues, service configuration, log analysis, performing routine tasks, and conducting audits. servers.
The AI functionality being added to the distribution is divided into explicit and implicit use of AI. In the first case, AI models expand existing features without changing the way users interact, for instance, through speech recognition and synthesis. In the second case, AI models are offered as standalone solutions, such as AI agents for work automation, and AI assistants for education, content generation, and analysis.
To ensure security and simplify the installation of AI models, it has been decided to deliver them along with their execution tools in the form of snap packages, optimized for various hardware platforms. The models will run in an isolated environment with no direct access to the rest of the system, and AI agents will operate according to existing access control and auditing mechanisms.
Within Canonical, it has been decided not to initially rely on a specific AI stack, but rather to give teams the opportunity to delve into the topic over the next six months, experiment with different AI stacks, select the optimal AI solutions for their tasks, and understand the strengths and limitations of AI tools. Employees will still be assessed based on how well they perform their tasks, rather than whether they use AI.
Source: opennet.ru
