Canonical is adding artificial intelligence features to its popular Ubuntu operating system, but some Linux users are clamouring for a ‘kill switch’ to disable these additions. While the company promises users will have the option to remove unwanted AI features through Snaps, others may opt for alternative distros with no such integration.

Jon Seager, Canonical’s VP of engineering, clarified that the new AI-backed tools are set to debut as ‘preview’ options in a strictly opt-in manner. Plans are for these features to be available from Ubuntu 26.10 onwards, allowing users to choose during setup whether or not they want to engage with them.

Meanwhile, Artyom Zorin of Zorin OS highlighted that his distribution will remain AI-agnostic and only include such features if they align with its values of security, privacy and performance. This move reflects a broader debate about the role of AI in computing and user choice.

The prospect of turning off AI entirely has raised questions about how deeply integrated these technologies have become in our everyday lives. As more software embraces AI, users must navigate between embracing innovation and maintaining control over their data and privacy.