Re: Re: Linux video editing patents

On Tue, 27 Dec 2005, Daniel James wrote:

> So far, it seems that the principle problems arise from compression 
> algorithms (aka codecs). It appears that projects can distribute software 
> that deals with raw formats such as WAV or DV without attracting too much 
> attention, but as soon as you want to import or export to distribution 
> formats (such as MPEG) then the lawyers get interested.

The good news is that 99.5% of the work involved with production and 
post-production does not require patented compression algorithms.  So 
even if individual codecs require paying license fees, these can be 
separated into a separate package/product.

> The projects that we've looked at are LAME and MAD for MP3 audio 
> encoding/decoding and FFMPEG for video. I'm not saying that these projects 
> definitely infringe patents, just that they have been the target of patent 
> lawyers and are therefore difficult to distribute in a free download product.

These projects clearly include patented algorithms.  But they continue 
to be freely distributed and there are likely non-infringing 
applications.  If the projects are GPL then the projects themselves 
are in violation of GPL if they distribute binaries.  I notice that 
many maintainers of GPLed software are not even aware of the 
provisions of the GPL and they could really care less.

Take note that GPL only covers *binary* distributions of software. 
GPL software in source form may always be copied, compiled, and used 
for any purpose.  There are no restrictions on compiled software until 
the binaries are distributed. So if the compilation is done as part of 
the install process then GPL restrictions are not involved. This means 
that the Gentoo Linux approach where software is installed by 
compiling the software assures that GPL is not a problem.

Bob
======================================
Bob Friesenhahn
[email protected], http://www.simplesystems.org/users/bfriesen/
GraphicsMagick Maintainer,    http://www.GraphicsMagick.org/


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