Linux kernel project Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways If something happens to Linus Torvalds, there’s now a succession plan. Rather than naming a successor, the plan describes a process for selecting successors. However, Torvalds has no plans to retire. After more than three decades in the Linux driver’s seat, Linus Torvalds will one day step away from his role as gatekeeper of the Linux kernel. We’ve always known that, of course, but the open-source project is no longer gambling on that scenario. The core kernel community has formally drafted a project‑continuity plan outlining how it would replace Torvalds as the top‑level maintainer if something were to happen to him or if he were to retire.  Also: Linus Torvalds is ‘a huge believer’ in using AI to maintain code – just don’t call it a revolution Mind you, when I asked him just now if he had any retirement plans — my own plan is to fall over gracefully onto my keyboard — he replied, “My plan seems to just be ‘I …