GNOME Cracks Down on AI-Generated Extensions

Recently, the GNOME Shell Extensions store implemented a significant change to its review policy, specifically prohibiting extensions predominantly crafted by AI. While developers crafting Linux desktop environment add-ons may still employ AI as a helper, extensions will face rejection if primarily constructed through AI-driven coding, especially when they display unnecessary code or erratic coding styles.

Javad Rahmatzadeh, one of the extension reviewers for GNOME, highlighted the necessity for this new rule. According to Rahmatzadeh, an increasing number of submissions featured subpar, AI-created code, with developers lacking comprehension of the code's functionality.

Issues With AI-Generated Code

Rahmatzadeh noted that AI-based development had resulted in packages filled with redundant and poorly executed code practices. He frequently spends long hours—sometimes over six daily—sifting through immense volumes of submissions, totaling over 15,000 lines of code, answering queries from the expansion community.

The influx of new packages to Extend GNOME Online (EGO) is growing consistently, which positively contributes to community expansion. Yet, there lies a problem with developers deploying AI without fully comprehending the output.

Domino Effect of Negligence

Poorly formed practices in one package can trigger a chain reaction, perpetuating across other extensions and swelling the backlog for reviews.

GNOME extensions serve various essential functions within the desktop ecosystem, some even integral to its functionality. For example, a favored extension allows users enhanced control over the application's dock configurations.

Permissible Use of AI

However, the updated guidelines are not entirely dismissive of AI. Developers are encouraged to integrate AI as an educational and development-aiding resource, on the condition they fully grasp the resulting code. In contrast, the Fedora Council has discussed coding policies shaped by AI without opting for a blanket prohibition.