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Mandrake Blocked By XFree86 4.4 License

Posted by simoniker on from the dueling-legalese dept.

Linzer writes "A mailing-list message posted by Mandrake Linux's main developer on the Cooker mailing-list states that the development version of the distro is about to revert from XFree86 4.4 to the 4.3 version because of XFree86's recent license change. Mandrake contributors have started asking for justifications from MdkSoft. Many point out features of XF86 4.4 [an 'an open source X11-based desktop infrastructure'] they can't live without, including support for some not so uncommon hardware. A later Cooker mailing-list post extends a bit on the reasons."

3 of 647 comments (clear)

  1. I'm Crying by ratboy666 · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    Not...

    Mandrake sells a "Linux" OS. That's what they have on the box...

    But, in reality, it should be an "XFree86" OS. That happens to run on Linux...

    Or... XFree86/GNU/OpenOffice/Linux.

    In terms of importance, I think that the XFree86 component is MORE vital to Mandrake than Linux (right now). It is easier to replace the kernel than to replace the X Server.

    And the X folk are demanding some recognition...

    Suck it up, and give it to them. There was a time when running "Linux" did not mean a GUI. A lot of uses STILL don't need a GUI. But most (RedHat, Mandrake, SuSE) compete with the GUI.

    So give it up to the X folk... Put it on that package. Yes, even at this late date.

    Ratboy

    --
    Just another "Cubible(sic) Joe" 2 17 3061
  2. Re:Good for them by randomblast · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    and?
    big bloody deal, i can put up with a little smearing, so take your trademark and stick it up your arse.

    no pun intended :p

    oh, and i didn't notice you mention an alternative to good ole xfree.

    --
    ...these aren't my real teeth.
  3. Re:Good for them by bhtooefr · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    A 402MB installation of Windows XP doesn't come with NEARLY as much as a 1200MB install of RedHat. Let's add it up:

    WinXP: 402MB, 1CD
    OXP: 2-300MB, 1-3CDs
    Various games: ~500MB, ~5CDs
    Server software: ~1GB, ~5CDs
    PhotoShop: ???

    RedHat (and others): 1000-1500MB, 3CDs
    OOo: Included in distro
    Games: Included in distro
    Server software: Included
    GIMP: Included

    Hmm... which does better in THIS comparison?