linux-kernel - Re: GPL vs non-GPL device drivers

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Message-ID: <45D4FCCC.90604@maths.otago.ac.nz>
Date:	Fri, 16 Feb 2007 13:37:32 +1300
From:	Greg Trounson <gregt@...hs.otago.ac.nz>
To:	linux-kernel@...r.kernel.org
Subject: Re: GPL vs non-GPL device drivers

Lee Revell wrote:
> On 2/15/07, Greg Trounson <gregt@...hs.otago.ac.nz> wrote:
>> Theodore Tso wrote:
>> > On Wed, Feb 14, 2007 at 10:27:10PM -0800, v j wrote:
>> >> You are right. I have not contributed anything to Linux. Except one
>> >> small patch to the MTD code. However, I don't think that is the point
>> >> here. I am perfectly willing to live with the way Linux is today. I am
>> >> telling you as a user that if Linux continues on the current path it
>> >> will become less and less attractive to Embedded Users.
>> >
>> > But so what?  How will that hurt *Linux*?  If the Embedded developers
>> > don't contribute changes back, it doesn't hurt us any if they go away
>> > and start paying $$$ to VxWorks instead of using Linux for free.
>>
>> I disagree.  Linux needs popularity at the moment.
> 
> Um... what's your point?  Allowing vendors to legally ship embedded
> devices containing proprietary drivers would require relicensing the
> kernel which is impossible, for reasons that have been discussed at
> length on this list.
> 
> Lee

I wasn't disputing legal problems with proprietary drivers nor suggesting people ignore 
the issue.  I was trying to make the point that Linux is adversely affected when lots of 
users, proprietary developers or otherwise, abandon Linux, and the issue might be more 
serious than people here think.

IMO the lack of provision for proprietary drivers in the GPL is a problem.  Not 
necessarily one we can do anything about now the horse has bolted, but a problem nonetheless.

Greg

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