Gumroad’s license wouldn’t meet the widely regarded definition of open source
a year ago
- #open-source
- #licensing
- #Gumroad
- Gumroad announced becoming open source, but their custom license doesn't meet the Open Source Definition (OSD).
- The license restricts usage to small businesses (under $1M revenue) and exempt organizations, violating OSD principles like free distribution and no discrimination.
- Redistribution rights are unclear, as sublicensing or transfer is prohibited, conflicting with open source norms.
- The license's conditions could limit service providers and forking, affecting software accessibility and longevity.
- Alternative terms like 'Source Available' are suggested instead of misleadingly labeling it as open source.
- The license's wording includes unusual provisions, like USD-specific conditions and broad copyright permissions, raising legal questions.