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Novell is behind at this pointNovell is behind at this pointPosted Jan 12, 2005 8:06 UTC (Wed) by Wol (guest, #4433)In reply to: Novell is behind at this point by XERC Parent article: IBM frees 500 patents
"Isn't there a case that, if Novell distributes any GPL-d code that its patents cover, then according to the GPL, Novell has given a grant to these patents to anyone who develops GPL-d code?"
This is inherent in the GPL. If you release software as GPL (ie you are *both* the copyright owner *and* the patent owner), the patents clause and the redistribution clause in the GPL together effectively turn the GPL into a patent licence. This is *automatic*.
And if you are not the copyright owner, but distribute code that implements your patent, you get caught by pretty much the same logic.
Cheers,
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