04.17.10
Company That Pays Microsoft for Unknown Patents in Linux Joins the Linux Foundation
Summary: The IBM-led Linux Foundation allows Microsoft to make money from Linux by accepting another member which engages in this questionable practice
BASED on the news [1, 2, 3], LG Electronics has joined the Linux Foundation. This foundation typically accepts anyone regardless of policy on software patents and even an intricate relationship with the company that litigates against Linux. Here is the official announcement:
The Linux Foundation, the nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating the growth of Linux, today announced that LG Electronics is its newest member. LG will participate in the Linux Foundation’s events and community development efforts.
A lot of people may no longer remember LG’s treasonous pact with Microsoft. LG is paying Microsoft for Linux (we call it “Ballnux” when that happens) and it is rather discouraging to see many announcements this month about Ballnux devices from LG [1, 2, 3]. Microsoft is making money from both Windows and Android now, thanks to LG. Here is another new phone that’s coming.
Details are starting to emerge (translated) about a forthcoming Android-based smart phone from South Korean handset maker LG. From the sounds of it, the LU2300 will fit well with some of the newer “super” phones like the Nexus One and Motorola Droid.
How does Google feel about being taxed by Microsoft (at a manufacturing level) for its operating system? See the Apple vs HTC case, recalling that Microsoft used it to justify extortion against large vendors for Free software that they use. This is what Microsoft does with LG and Samsung, which is also based in Korea. Samsung must be paying Microsoft for Linux boot-up on its new sub-notebooks.
It looks ordinary enough and has largely average performance, though the extra battery life is welcome and the alternative Linux boot-up is fun.
Samsung also has some new Android phones [1, 2, 3], which are being ‘taxed’ by Microsoft behind people’s backs.
If AT&T keeps in line with their recent Android strategy, the Galaxy S could be hampered by lock-downs and restrictions.
Yes, it hardly even feels like Free software. But where is the mainstream media, which is simply not covering the fact that Microsoft makes money from Android by extorting companies like LG, Samsung, and Kyocera? This is a major issue. █
Nate said,
April 17, 2010 at 10:23 am
You’re always so negative. Don’t you think LG’s decision to join the Linux Foundation could be interpreted as a positive step for the company?
Dr. Roy Schestowitz said,
April 17, 2010 at 2:46 pm
This aspect of it was covered in the 4 links I gave. I was trying to add the missing part which all of them overlook.
Agent_Smith said,
April 17, 2010 at 3:46 pm
The deals with Microsoft are extortion. But, it’s not LG who pays, but the customers. Perhaps it’s not illegal, in the US, but, in any part of the world, it’s immoral.
I just hope LG follows the rules of GPL. Becoming a part of Linux foundation is one step, but we are yet to see what direction LG will take. LG is willing to be seen as friend of Linux. We will see about that.