GPL v3, to the best of my knowledge, does not place any additional requirements on users of the code than GPL v2. I might be wrong, so let me know if you're aware of such a case. <br><br>The big problem is that Linus is UNABLE to make the kernel GPLv3. Kernel contributors, unlike contributors to the GNU project, are not required to transfer copyright to Linus. As a result, relicensing the kernel under GPL v3 would require ALL contributors to agree. Even if there was no objection, getting in contact with them all is dicey at best, since many have since left the community or even passed away.<br>
<br>There was a discussion of this on Groklaw around the time GPLv3 was in its final drafts, but I can't seem to find it now.<br><br>David<br><br><br><div class="gmail_quote">2008/11/18 Jim Kinney <span dir="ltr"><<a href="mailto:jim.kinney@gmail.com">jim.kinney@gmail.com</a>></span><br>
<blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;">I was just thinking about google and the gpl. We all know that google wouldn't be able to run were it not for Linux. We all also know they use a ton of Linux stuff and don't _have_ to release their modifications as they are in that special grey area of _using_ the code and not distributing the code. They only show the output of the code.<br>
<br>In fact, it was just this sort of application service providor not giving back that led to the GPL v. 3. (yes, google does give back in other ways but not the stuff they code for their applications, machines, etc)<br>
<br>So if Linus relents and the kenel becomes gpl3 licensed, What will google do? Will they release their kernel modification (that could be cool)? Will they stick with an older licensed kernel and go their own way from then on and thumb their nose at the rest of the world (I can see that as a very real option for them)? <br>
<br>Pure speculation time here: I think they will go somewhere in the middle - release _some_ of the kernel mods and stick to that gpl v2 version and in-house their own version from then on. I could be WAY off base and they may jump on the gpl3 bandwagon solidly.<br>
<br><your comments here><br clear="all"><br>-- <br><font color="#888888">-- <br>James P. Kinney III <br><br>
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