[linux-audio-dev] Patents on some Linux OS code

[Jack O'Quin]

<eviltwin69 at cableone.net> writes:

> On Wed, 8 Dec 2004 19:01 , 'Pedro Lozano' <pl2 at ono.com> sent:
> 
> >> 2) If such an issue should be discovered, Novell will back up the
> >>Linux side with their patent-portfolio, which (cough) *could*
> >>(cough) be an expensive experience for the attacker.

> > Novell would back linux if they can get money from it, if the
> >Singapore administration doesnt buy linux from Novell I dont think
> >they will get involved.

>     IBM has already stated that if anyone goes after Linux with a
> patent issue IBM (the largest patent holder in the world) will go
> after them.

I feel sure they will.

> >> 4) The end user is not responsible for what patent issues the
> >>producer might get involved with.

> > Many companies thinks that it is, the SCO vs DaimlerCrysler case
> >(because of they use Linux) is an example, that case is because of
> >copyright but surely will be many like that because of patents.

>     An end user of a copyrighted/patented product is not liable for
> infringement suits *unless* the end user distributes the
> copyrighted/patented product in violation of the copyright/patent.  If
> you just buy a product from a vendor and use it you aren't liable for
> infringement.  You didn't infringe the copyright/patent, the vendor
> did.  At any rate SCO is about to get its ass handed to it by DC ;-)

It may take years, but when IBM's countersuit against SCO is finally
settled, I predict SCO is going to owe IBM more than their (SCO's) net
worth.
-- 
  joq