> maybe MP4 isn't and is just free to use, I'm not sure Correct. MP4 is not an open format. From [1]: > MPEG-4 contains patented technologies, the use of whi

> maybe MP4 isn't and is just free to use, I'm not sure Correct. MP4 is not an open format. From [1]: > MPEG-4 contains patented technologies, the use of which requires licensing in countries that acknowledge software algorithm patents. Over two dozen companies claim to have patents covering MPEG-4. MPEG LA licenses patents required for MPEG-4 Part 2 Visual from a wide range of companies (audio is licensed separately) and lists all of its licensors and licensees on the site. New licenses for MPEG-4 System patents are under development and no new licenses are being offered while holders of its old MPEG-4 Systems license are still covered under the terms of that license for the patents listed (MPEG LA – Patent List). > AT&T is trying to sue companies such as Apple Inc. over alleged MPEG-4 patent infringement. The terms of Apple's QuickTime 7 license for users describes in paragraph 14 the terms under Apple's existing MPEG-4 System Patent Portfolio license from MPEG LA. [1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MPEG-4#Licensing https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MPEG-4#Licensing