Fluendo MP3 GStreamer Plugin in Main for Dapper?

[John Nilsson]

On Tue, 2005-12-27 at 18:46 -0800, Mike Douglas wrote:
> On 12/27/05, John Nilsson <john at milsson.nu> wrote:
> > But if one has to decide whether do ditch a software (rhythmbox) because
> > it's free in favor of including non-free software (fluendo mp3 plug-in)
> > for the sake of functionality it is crucial to know whether one
> > prioritizes functionality or freedom.
> 
> How is fluendo's mp3 plugin considered non-free?

We have two software here to consider. The binary plug-in compiled and
distributed by fluendo and the source code they use.

The binary plug-in is what we are interested in because it's the only
thing that comes with a patent grant.

As fluendo is the only one with a license to create the binary plug-in
it's by definition non-free.

Not only is the right to distribute or modify the plug-in restricted.
The license even contains restrictions on how one can use the plug-in.

Quote from license in draft contract:
2. Except as expressly authorized by Fluendo in writing, it is forbidden
to:
    (i)   use this software in other ways than allowed by this contract.
    (ii) tamper or interfere with the functionality, delivery or operation
          of the Software while using or installing it;
    (iii) sell, resell, rent, lease, distribute, transfer, assign,
          sublicense or otherwise deal with the Software, its components,
          the Documentation or any of the rights granted under this License
          Agreement;
    (iv) duplicate, reproduce or copy (except for reasonable backup
          purposes) the Software or the Documentation; or
    (v)   export or re-export the Software, directly or indirectly, into any
          country prohibited by law.
    (vi) use this software in the operation of Nuclear facilities, in
          aircraft navigation, in aircraft communication, in aircraft flight
          control, in aircraft traffic control systems or in other devices
          or systems in which serious injury or death to the operator of the
          device or system, or to others due to a malfunction (including,
          without limitation, software related delay or failure) could
          reasonably be foreseen.
    (vii) use this Final Product on non-PC devices like tablets, pda,
          portable players and other embeded devices.



Regards,
John