Bruce Perens: Combining GPL and Proprietary Software (Datamation) [LWN.net]

In an article at Datamation, Bruce Perens gives some advice on using both GPL and proprietary software, particularly in mobile phones. He looks at the reasons for keeping some parts closed (DRM or regulatory compliance for example), then offers suggestions on how to handle that safely. "Also, don't look for, and use loopholes in the Open Source licenses. Nothing makes your company look worse than taking unfair advantage of people who provided their work to you without charge, expecting in good faith that you'd honor their license. It also tends to make Open Source folks reluctant to cooperate with your company, the next time you need help with their software."

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Bruce Perens: Combining GPL and Proprietary Software (Datamation)

Posted Feb 10, 2009 7:50 UTC (Tue) by hppnq (guest, #14462) [Link] (3 responses)

This article provides all the reasons you need to take a good look at OpenMoko.

I'm confused...

Posted Feb 10, 2009 8:19 UTC (Tue) by khim (subscriber, #9252) [Link] (2 responses)

Does OpenMoko magically allow you to stuff proprietary stuff everywhere without regard to GPL???

I'm confused...

Posted Feb 10, 2009 9:55 UTC (Tue) by hppnq (guest, #14462) [Link] (1 responses)

I have no idea what you mean. I simply dislike the suggestion that combining the GPL with other licenses requires special legal attention, which is utter nonsense: all licenses should be carefully read before you can use the software distributed under it.

My point was, of course, that projects like OpenMoko are an example of how to let go of the old model where my people call your people.

I'm confused...

Posted Feb 11, 2009 0:29 UTC (Wed) by barbara (guest, #3014) [Link]

Well said. In my book freedom always wins and is the best path to follow.
The fewer lawyers involved the better.

Bruce Perens: Combining GPL and Proprietary Software (Datamation)

Posted Feb 14, 2009 1:36 UTC (Sat) by giraffedata (guest, #1954) [Link]

expecting in good faith that you'd honor their license

... honor their copyright.

The only person who can honor the license is the licensor/copyright holder.