What Happens with Open Source in the Age of AI?

Turso, a complete rewrite of SQLite in Rust, embraces an Open Source and Open Contribution model, contrasting with the increasingly popular "SQLite model" of restricted contributions due to AI's impact on open-source submissions. Turso's founders, inspired by their experience with the Linux Kernel, emphasize the transformative potential of a true Open Source community, where contributors can influence project direction rather than merely contributing code. Despite AI's role in writing nearly all of Turso's code, the project maintains strict quality control through rigorous code reviews and testing methodologies. Turso values the "benevolent dictator" model, where trusted contributors naturally gain responsibility by consistently submitting high-quality work, rather than being appointed. The project is committed to maintaining high standards, requiring contributors to demonstrate they've thoroughly vetted AI-generated code, with the aim of fostering a vibrant community where contributors earn their place by engaging meaningfully with the project.