Linux kernel 7.3 has been released, featuring a record 15,267 commits, making it the second busiest merge window in the project's history. The update includes preparations for AMD Zen 6, improvements to Btrfs, stable support for Intel Nova Lake integrated graphics, and new controller support, with the community contemplating whether it or the upcoming 7.4 will be this year's long-term support (LTS) version. AI and large language model coding agents have been credited with both the growth in the codebase, which now stands at approximately 40.98 million lines, and the expedited removal of outdated drivers. Despite the significant changes and improvements, experts recommend waiting for stable distributions to incorporate these updates rather than building from source

Linux Kernel 7.3 Released: Record Commit Count and AI-Driven Growth

Linux kernel 7.3 shipped today, marking the fifth major release of the 7.x era. With 15,267 commits, it logged the second busiest merge window ever behind Linux 6.7, pushing the kernel to roughly 40.98 million lines of code. Torvalds credits AI and LLM coding agents for both the growth and the accelerating removal of stale drivers. The update brings AMD Zen 6 prep, faster Btrfs, stable Intel Nova Lake integrated graphics, and new controller support, as maintainers weigh whether 7.3 or 7.4 takes this year's LTS crown.

Linux Kernel 7.3 Released: Record Commit Count and AI-Driven Growth @ Linux Compatible