freebsd ai-development driver-creation macbook-pro

FreeBSD doesn't have Wi-Fi driver for my old MacBook. AI build one for me

vladimir.varank.in

February 23, 2026

7 min read

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66/100

Summary

FreeBSD lacks a Wi-Fi driver for older MacBook models. An AI-generated driver is being developed to enable Wi-Fi functionality on a 2016 MacBook Pro running FreeBSD.

Key Takeaways

FreeBSD lacks native Wi-Fi driver support for the Broadcom BCM4350 chip used in 2016 MacBook Pro models.
The author attempted to use AI to port the Linux brcmfmac driver to FreeBSD, but faced significant challenges including kernel panics and missing features in the LinuxKPI compatibility layer.
After initial attempts, the author shifted to asking the AI for a detailed specification of the brcmfmac driver tailored to the BCM4350 chip, recognizing the complexity of the task.
The AI coding agent's output grew increasingly complex, indicating the difficulty of adapting a large driver for a specific hardware component.

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Coverage & discussions

Hacker News · vladimir.varank.in

FreeBSD doesn't have Wi-Fi driver for my old MacBook. AI build one for me ↗

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Analysis ready

Community Sentiment

Mixed

Positives

The potential for AI to automate driver development could lead to ubiquitous hardware support across various operating systems, making technology more accessible.
Using AI to build custom solutions for specific needs empowers users to create tailored software, enhancing personal productivity and satisfaction.

Concerns

Current AI-generated code for drivers is still buggy and untested, highlighting the limitations of AI in solving complex programming challenges effectively.
There are concerns about the safety and reliability of AI-generated software, as it may lead to unverified solutions and potential security risks.