Novell Makes Linux Driver Project a Reality

apokryphos writes "Novell have relaunched the Linux Driver Project by dedicating well-known kernel developer Greg KH to work on the project full-time. Greg KH writes: 'My employer, Novell, has modified my position to now allow me to work full time on this project. Namely getting more new Linux kernel drivers written, for free, for any company that so desires. And to help manage all of the developers and project managers who want to help out...They really care about helping make Linux support as many devices as possible, with fully open-source drivers.'"

Comments

Re:Cool

[Enderandrew]

What bullshit?

If they didn't think they had violated Microsoft patents, then why pay to license them? Why sign a deal that includes a "no-sue" clause?

I don't see what the GPLv3 has to do with the current discussion, and I'm not pushing GPLv3. I'm saying that Novell set a legal precedent that could really hurt the Linux community, and if nothing else they enabled FUD. Microsoft can go to major corporations and say "Novell licensed our patents, and if you use Linux, you could be sued, unless you use SUSE Linux, and buy it from us."

Re:Good to hear - as long as they stay clean..

[Kjella]

it's more than possible to have a good deal with a bad company,

Sure, everyhing is great at first. I think you missed the part of the movie where the devil comes to collect on his dues.

Do you honestly think that Microsoft did any of this to propel Novell and Linux into market dominance? There's nothing in Novell a company with 40bn couldn't buy outright or develop on their own, so what are they really after? Whether it's to turn them to the dark side, set them up to be the fall guy or their source of FUD, but it's not to be the patron saint of Novell. I expect that as the end of the deal approaches we'll see a ton of FUD, increased license fees and whatnot.

Free?

[nurb432]

I doubt that.