[ale] google and gpl

[David Tomaschik]

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.

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.

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.

David


2008/11/18 Jim Kinney <jim.kinney at gmail.com>

> 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.
>
> 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)
>
> 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)?
>
> 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.
>
> <your comments here>
>
> --
> --
> James P. Kinney III
>
>
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