Non-free kernel modules [LWN.net]

Non-free kernel modules

Posted Jan 7, 2006 4:36 UTC (Sat) by csamuel (✭ supporter ✭, #2624)
Parent article: The Grumpy Editor's Obviously Incorrect 2006 Predictions

Whether the end result is the release of free drivers or the complete withdrawal of support remains to be seen.

My 2p worth is that (for graphics at least) it's likely to be that in the majority of cases vendors will drop support rather than open up.

They'll do a CBA and figure out that their possible extra sales from Linux support will be a fraction of the possible costs from legal issues from using Other Peoples IP, etc, and it'll be a no brainer for the accountants and lawyers - Linux doesn't even rate a mention in nVidia's quarterly filings with the SEC for instance.

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Non-free kernel modules

Posted Jan 7, 2006 18:16 UTC (Sat) by man_ls (subscriber, #15091) [Link]

As I argued above, if Linux users were not relevant to nVidia or ATI, they wouldn't be shipping binary modules now. It's not like they do it out of the kindness in their hearts; if they were motivated by kindness they would just release graphic card specs.

My prediction: graphic chip makers will figure out that companies don't make money angering a small but significant fraction of their customers. Lawyers will find out that possible costs are not so important; after all, we don't see network adapter makers worried about Linux drivers. So we will have free drivers after all.