Bcachefs May Be Removed from Linux 6.17 – Torvalds Questions Patch Process

Rotterdam, June 28, 2025 – Linus Torvalds has informed Kent Overstreet, the developer behind the Bcachefs file system, that he is considering removing Bcachefs from the upcoming Linux 6.17 kernel release. Although Torvalds accepted the changes in version 6.16, tensions have recently resurfaced over how Overstreet submits his patches.

Dispute Over Timing and Contribution Guidelines

Torvalds stated that he and Overstreet have “different priorities” during the kernel’s merge window—the critical time when changes are integrated into the next release. According to Torvalds, Overstreet continues to push for major functional changes during this window, which in turn delays or blocks important maintenance patches. Torvalds insists such intrusive changes should be deferred to a later development phase.

In private correspondence, Overstreet noted that his intentions may have been misinterpreted. While he is open to pausing large-scale contributions to the kernel, he emphasized that this would not threaten the viability of the Bcachefs project.

What Does This Mean for Users?

If Bcachefs is removed from the official kernel, it will remain available as a standalone kernel module via DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support). Overstreet acknowledged that while this decision may ease collaboration with Torvalds, it poses challenges for users and the broader developer community.

What Is Bcachefs?

Bcachefs is an experimental file system focused on performance and reliability, making use of advanced caching mechanisms similar to bcache. Because issues in file systems can lead to severe consequences like data loss, Overstreet advocates for fast bug fixes—even outside of the formal merge window.

Conclusion

The potential removal of Bcachefs from Linux kernel 6.17 highlights the ongoing tension between rapid innovation—especially in critical components like file systems—and the stability guidelines enforced in later stages of kernel development. While users will still have access to Bcachefs via DKMS, its future in the mainline kernel remains uncertain.