The Document Foundation, the nonprofit behind the open source document editor LibreOffice, said in a blog post this week that while it does not reject AI out of hand, it “will not add” AI to its software for the foreseeable future.
The latest version of LibreOffice was released in late August 2026, and the organization reiterated that the software does not include any generative AI features. This is a “deliberate design position,” which guarantees that users’ documents are not uploaded to a server for processing and that no part of the software requires a network connection to function. With tens of millions of users and organizations relying on it, LibreOffice emphasizes that users should retain control over their data.
For those interested in AI tools, LibreOffice allows users to install software extensions that connect to local AI models. This approach contrasts sharply with many software makers who are increasingly integrating AI features, often leading to what’s been termed the “enshittification” of modern software. This term points to how unnecessary and bloated features can diminish the user experience.
Typically, AI tools require users’ data to be uploaded and processed on remote servers, raising concerns about data control–users often have no say in how their information is stored or for how long. LibreOffice has stated that there is currently no integration available that meets its criteria for including AI, which includes ensuring user data remains on their device and avoiding reliance on a single AI provider.
The organization’s decision reflects an assessment of today’s technology landscape rather than a judgment on the value of the AI sector. “Until then, there will be no AI of any kind in the default installation,” the blog post states. However, it reassures users that extensions will be available for those wanting to integrate AI features. This keeps the door open for future developments while maintaining a commitment to user data security.
LibreOffice’s stance on AI underscores its commitment to user data security, allowing users to connect local AI models through extensions while ensuring that no user data is processed off-device. This approach sets it apart from many software options that prioritize integration over privacy, highlighting a growing tension in the tech landscape between convenience and control.
