[Leaplist] Did everyone read (and re-read) the Novell FAQ?

[Bryan J. Smith]

I don't think you guys read the Novell FAQ.  I just re-read it and noted
this section (which relates to many others) ...

  Q. The press release indicates Microsoft is also pledging
     not to assert its patents against individual, non-
     commercial open source developers. How is this connected
     to Novell?
  A. Microsoft and Novell felt it was important to establish
     a precedent for the individual, non-commercial open source
     developer community that potential patent litigation need
     not be a concern. Microsoft is excited to more actively
     participate in the open source community and Novell is
     and will continue to be an important enabler for this
     bridge. For these reasons, both Novell and Microsoft felt
     it was appropriate to make this pledge for Microsoft not
     to assert its patents against the non-commercial community.

Now I understand it only covers developments where the developers are
not compensated (which more of a legal reason than anything), but this
is unbelievable!  Microsoft really does want interoperability and was
willing to bring down the barriers -- likely because they are getting
pounded because of lack of interoperability, as well as the fact that
many production houses don't like to use "fat" client software without
any infrastructure or lighter services (i.e., "fat" client software
being the overwhelming majority of Microsoft software).

Ignore Ballmer, this is a really _good_ cross-license because it extends
out to the community as well.  Wow!  I can't believe I missd that!


-- 
Bryan J. Smith         Professional, Technical Annoyance
mailto:b.j.smith at ieee.org   http://thebs413.blogspot.com
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