The Document Foundation, the nonprofit organization behind LibreOffice, said in a blog post this week that it will not include generative artificial intelligence (AI) features in the default installation for the foreseeable future. The announcement follows the suite’s latest release in late August, where the nonprofit reiterated that the software "contains no generative AI features."
Why the choice?
The organisation framed the decision as a deliberate design position rather than a blanket rejection of AI. Its priorities are to prevent users’ documents from being uploaded to remote servers for processing and to ensure that no part of the software requires a network connection to function. As the Document Foundation put it: "Any organisation handling confidential, legally privileged or personal data needs to know where that data goes, and the only assurance that survives an audit is that it does not leave the machine."
The Foundation also noted that LibreOffice is used by tens of millions of people and organisations, which makes preserving user control over data particularly important.
How can users still access AI features?
According to the blog post, users who want AI capabilities can still install extensions that connect LibreOffice to local AI models. However, the organisation says there is currently "no integration" that meets all of its criteria — for example, ensuring that user data stays on the device and avoiding dependence on a single AI provider.
Is this permanent?
The Document Foundation emphasises this stance is not a definitive rejection of the AI sector’s value, but an assessment of today's technology. The blog states: "Until then, there will be no AI of any kind in the default installation; extensions will be available for those who wish to integrate AI features, and we will closely monitor where the technology is actually heading."
How this contrasts with wider industry trends
The decision runs counter to a broader trend among many software makers to add extensive AI features — sometimes to the detriment of user experience. Critics describe this phenomenon as the "enshittification" of modern software, where bloated and unnecessary features such as chatbots and AI assistants are added. That trend has led some developers to create tools that block or remove AI features entirely.
Why this matters
Many AI tools require user data to be uploaded and processed on remote servers, where users have limited control over storage and retention. By keeping AI out of the default install until integrations meet its privacy and technical standards, LibreOffice aims to preserve offline operation and data control for users and organisations that handle sensitive information.
Summary
For now, LibreOffice will not ship generative AI in the default installation, though extensions remain an option for those who wish to integrate AI via local models. The Document Foundation will continue to monitor developments and may reconsider if integration options meet its requirements.
