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The Linux Kernel and Software Patents

Posted by CmdrTaco on from the sumthin-to-think-about dept.

batsman writes "The Linux VM system programmers are discussing the software patents that could block further development of important features. Alan Cox brings up several SGI patents covering the techniques they were considering, and Daniel Phillips has found some patents that affect features already present in Linux. Linus Torvalds thinks they should ignore these patents and pretend they don't exist until they cause troubles. How long before kernel developers are sued for patent infringement?"

2 of 544 comments (clear)

  1. I'm sure that'll look real good. by bsDaemon · · Score: 2, Flamebait

    "look everyone, them there linux varmints are pirates and theives!! patent infringers!! patent infringers!!" And of course, Linux is the "respectible" free UNIX w/out the Devil on their shoulders, so obviously the BSD people must be worse then. It'll adversely affect all of the free software community and make Microsoft look "right" -- free/open software is for pirates and h4x0rZ and shouldn't be trusted w/ your business.

  2. Dear Linus... by Kid+Zero · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    Bad Idea. Very Bad Idea. Play nice or go sit in a corner.