Linus - kernel copyright licence covers software, does not extend to hardware
4 months ago
- #Open Source
- #Legal Ruling
- #GPLv2
- Linus Torvalds shares a court ruling affirming that GPLv2 requires making source code available but does not mandate opening hardware or providing installation keys.
- The case involved Vizio and the Software Freedom Conservancy (SFC), with both parties criticized for their actions—Vizio for initially not providing source code and SFC for misrepresenting GPLv2's requirements.
- The judge ruled that GPLv2 does not require allowing modified software to be reinstalled on the original device, emphasizing the license's focus on code availability and modification rights.
- Torvalds clarifies that GPLv2 covers software rights, not hardware, and criticizes SFC for expanding the license's scope beyond its intent.
- The discussion includes debates on software freedom, hardware rights, and the practicality of modifying and reinstalling software on proprietary devices.