Elliott Back's Blog - Latest Comments in GPL 3 Draft — Elliott C. Back

Re: GPL 3 Draft — Elliott C. Back

inaequitas — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 00:25:52 -0000

What this aims to cover is issues like the Sony rootkit; part of that software had LGPL'ed code inside and it was used to restrict others' free use of software and other electronic technology. I think GPLv3 aims at not allowing those kinds of things from happening; but I'm not sure this is precise. If the iTunes was not the one enforcing DRMs, but a different application, as long as iTunes was not 'touching' any DRM aspect [including, I think, trying to see if DRM is present] then it could be GPL'ed.

Re: GPL 3 Draft — Elliott C. Back

ceejayoz — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 22:52:34 -0000

But the music isn't the software, shorty114.

I don't see why Apple shouldn't be allowed to GPL iTunes without having to permit any and all usages of the protected songs if they felt like it.

Re: GPL 3 Draft — Elliott C. Back

shorty114 — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 21:51:37 -0000

Actually, it makes sense. Free software (by GNU definition) is freely distributable, modifiable and usable software. DRM's (e.g. the iTunes Music Store one) prevent distribution of the music.