Each of the components of Linux is an Open Source project that is managed by a different project maintainer. The Linux kernel is developed and updated following the Open Source development model discussed previously. Linus Torvalds is the project maintainer, with final authority over what goes into the kernel. Because of the complexity of the project, he is aided by a group of appointed project maintainers who are responsible for various components of the code. A large number of developers worldwide contribute to improvements to Linux.
Any developer can submit a patch that includes source code changes to the kernel mailing list.
The patch is reviewed by Linus and his project maintainers. They decide whether or not to include it in the next release based on technical merit, not commercial reasons. Thus, there is no single company directing the development path of the Linux kernel. The stable version, which gets updated every few months, only includes code that is time-tested and proven. This is what is released to end users and businesses.