FSF: New Apache License not GPL-Compatible

__past__ writes "It seems that the XFree86 issue is not the only licensing battle currently fought in the FLOSS world: An update to the FSF's list of Free Software licenses lists the new Apache License, Version 2.0 (which has been discussed on Slashdot before) as not being GPL-compatible, due to a clause related to software patents." (Read on for more.)

__past__ continues "The new version of the Apache license will apply to all Apache projects, including the popular web server and many Java libraries like Xerces and Log4J, and making it easier to integrate Apache- and GNU-licensed code was one of the primary goals for its development. With the new license being GPL-incompatible (just like the older Apache licenses were), it is not possible to distribute programs that use libraries covered by under it and others covered by the GPL.

Apparently, the FSF does not actually consider the patent-related clauses a bad idea, let alone non-free - it is just that they impose a restriction that the GPL does not, and that makes the license automatically incompatible. It might even be that GPL Version 3 will include similar statements or at least allow them, as a message from FSF legal counsel Eben Moglen indicates. Additionally, prominent Apache hacker Roy Fielding claims that it doesn't really matter what the FSF thinks about the matter, because according to the Apache Software Foundation, derived works can just be distributed under the GPL."

Comments

Re:bullshit i say

[Triumph The Insult C]

no, my point is, why does the GPL have to be center of the universe? who cares what the FSF says? so long as you're on their side, or you've given the rights to your code to them, you're ok. the minute you aren't on their side, you're an outcast of sorts. who made FSF king?

Article is JUST FUD!

[Anonymous Coward]

Why did timothy even POST this article??? Its just fud and flamebait. Here is the FACTS

• Apache wasnt gpl compatible in the first place, but it was still popular
• Unlike the X11 licence, the changes to this licence are good, not obnoxious
• You can use Apache on GPL systems, just don't link to any gpl libaries

This licence change can't be compared to the X11 licence. Why cant you slashbots discuss things properly instead of karma whoring FUD so you can make lame 5, Funny SCO jokes! Learn the truth!

Re:What if Stallman bitched about licensing

[Gothmolly]

Because you define the practical reality as reflecting 'need', I can only assume that you are a communist, and therefore beneath the trolls on the food chain. Likewise, your assertion that 'patents, copyright and IP in general' are 'largely obsolete' proves your disregard for the product of the mind. Thus, your mysticism is also illustrated, which is of no surprise, given that you are a communist.
Incidentally, I got a +5, while you got a zero, so I win.