GNU Linux-libre 6.15-gnu removes non-free firmware from Linux 6.15, breaking NVIDIA NOVA & other drivers. Learn how Rust code & SOF controversies impact open-source hardware support. Download now!
The Free Software Foundation Latin America (FSFLA) has launched GNU Linux-libre 6.15-gnu, a downstream kernel that rigorously removes non-free firmware, microcode, and proprietary blobs from the newly released Linux 6.15 stable kernel.
This update ensures 100% free software compliance, making it ideal for privacy-focused users, open-source purists, and enterprise environments requiring strict licensing adherence.
Key Hardware Drivers Affected by Firmware Removal
The latest release disables blob loading in several critical drivers, including:
NOVA Core GPU (NVIDIA’s open-source Rust-based driver)
Qualcomm Iris V4L2 (video capture)
Airoha NPU (AI acceleration)
Tehuti TN40xx (10G Ethernet)
Realtek 8814A (Wi-Fi 6)
Apple Silicon touchscreen (M1/M2 support)
Renesas UFS (storage controllers)
AW88166 (high-fidelity audio)
Without firmware blobs, these drivers lose functionality—highlighting the ongoing tension between hardware compatibility and software freedom.
NVIDIA NOVA Driver Rendered Useless Without GSP Firmware
A major casualty in this release is NVIDIA’s experimental NOVA driver, which relies on the proprietary GPU System Processor (GSP) firmware for modern GPU support. Since GNU Linux-libre blocks GSP loading, NOVA becomes non-functional—mirroring the limitations of Nouveau, NVIDIA’s existing open-source driver.
Rust Code Complications: A First for Linux-libre
This marks the first time GNU Linux-libre developers have had to modify Rust-based kernel code—an unexpected challenge. As stated in their release:
"Nova Core is the first upstream driver written in Rust that loads blobs. We cleaned it up… but broke it in the process (we don’t speak Rust!). If you know Rust and want to contribute, help us fix it!"
Fortunately, Rust support remains optional in Linux kernels, so most users won’t face build issues.
Sound Open Firmware (SOF) Controversy
The team also criticized SOF’s implementation, where most devices reject user-signed firmware in favor of proprietary keys. They removed all "seemingly-free" SOF binaries from stable branches, urging the community to maintain a truly libre firmware alternative.
Download & Final Thoughts
GNU Linux-libre 6.15-gnu is available now at FSFLA.org. This release underscores the growing divide between open-source ideals and modern hardware demands—making it a critical discussion point for developers, enterprise IT, and privacy advocates.
FAQ: GNU Linux-libre 6.15-gnu
Q: Can I use NVIDIA GPUs with this kernel?
A: Only with severe limitations—NOVA and Nouveau require proprietary firmware.Q: Is Rust required to build this kernel?
Q: Why remove SOF binaries?
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