# Linux kernel to support $ORIGIN via eBPF

Programmable interpreter selection coming to binfmt_misc subsystem.

- **Source:** [Hacker News: Front Page](https://brifing.si/source/b07aa772-b1a0-4a76-aa18-719c6f9e2dde)
- **Published:** 2026-07-21
- **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering)
- **Original article:** <https://fzakaria.com/2026/07/20/linux-kernel-will-support-origin-sort-of>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/77659402-02a6-42f8-aff6-ecb0253de380

## Quest for Relocatable Binaries in Nix

A developer proposed adding $ORIGIN support to Linux kernel for relocatable binaries in Nix ecosystem. This feature would enable dynamic library paths relative to executable location.

## Unexpected Positive Reception

VFS maintainer Christian Brauner welcomed the proposal and suggested an eBPF-based programmable solution. This offers far more flexibility than traditional binfmt_misc approach.

## Programmable Loader with eBPF

The new system allows dynamic loader selection per binary through eBPF VM running in kernel space. This opens innovative use cases beyond just $ORIGIN support.

## Enhanced binfmt_misc Support

Christian's patch series improves binfmt_misc with new features like loader substitution (L flag), preserving process identity while maintaining compatibility.

## NixOS Integration Plans

After changes land in Linux's -next branch, a special NixOS module will be developed. It will use PT_INTERP_NIX segment to maintain backward compatibility.

## Revolution for System Programmers

This change is particularly significant for package managers like Nix and Buck/Bazel. Dynamic interpreter selection could usher new era in relocatable binary distribution.

## Sources covering this story

- https://fzakaria.com/2026/07/20/linux-kernel-will-support-origin-sort-of — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._