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It's not about advancing the GNU project as much as advancing the values expressed in the GPL: allowing your software to be built on by those who agree to retur
by mcantelon 16y ago
It's not about advancing the GNU project as much as advancing the values expressed in the GPL: allowing your software to be built on by those who agree to return the favor. There's nothing wrong with reciprocity.
- hrabago 16y agoThe issue isn't about being able to build on top of what you built. This can still be done by open sourcing your app. The issue is distribution. Those people may not be able to redistribute the app, but they can still contribute code.
- tbrownaw 16y ago> values expressed in the GPL: allowing your software to be built on by those who agree to return the favor. GPL3 has gone far beyond that; instead of just requiring that the software be usable as a starting point and building block for new work, it now also mandates that it be user-serviceable. You don't just need to be allowed to modify the tivo software to make your own dvr, now you also need to be able to modify the software in-place on your existing device.
- rbanffy 16y ago> don't just need to be allowed to modify the tivo software to make your own dvr If you can't do that to your TiVo, is it really yours?
- tbrownaw 16y agoThe part you quoted isn't about doing things to your tivo. For the part that is, are all of my gadgets that are built with non-standard screws also "not really mine"?
- rbanffy 16y agoWith a TiVo (as with an iPod, a VCR, a PlayStation) you are either pretty much happy with what it does or royally screwed (with non-standard screws). If you are happy with your TiVo, then good for you. If you are not, you cannot bend it to your will. It would be much better if users could do that, but, unfortunately, we are not that lucky. You can always sell your TiVo and build your own DVR.