Embedded Device Manufacturers Ignoring GPL

swillden writes "Iain Barker and some other Linux Kernel Mailing List readers have discovered that several manufacturers of DVD players based on the Sigma Designs EM8500 chipset are distributing Linux, both in the devices and as binary-only firmware upgrades, but not providing source. Apparently, Sigma Designs provides its customers with a copy of the kernel as part of a chipset SDK, and those customers are making and selling devices without complying with the terms of the GPL. It's not clear if this is because Sigma didn't tell its customers about the GPL and their obligations, or if they're all ignoring it on their own. Maybe they've all bought licenses from SCO and therefore don't have to comply with the GPL? The LKML post contains a list of some of the infringers."

Comments

SCO and embedded Linux....

[overbyj]

Maybe they've all bought licenses from SCO and therefore don't have to comply with the GPL?

I seriously doubt any embedded Linux manufacturer has bought a license from SCO. Didn't SCO once threaten embedded Linux manufacturers, like they have threatened just about everybody else? If I remember correctly, Darl went to Japan to a major embedded Linux conference there to drum up support for his illegal licensing scheme from embedded Linux manufacturers. I think the reception was less than warm.

As wrong as it is not distribute the source code to the embedded Linux these manufacturers are using, they are in no uncertain terms on the same level as SCO. They might be if they charged you for the product as well as charged you for the right to use the embedded Linux.