[bug#48217] [PATCH 0/9] Add sdrangel

[Leo Famulari]

On Tue, May 04, 2021 at 08:46:51AM +0000, Guillaume Le Vaillant wrote:
> --8<---------------cut here---------------start------------->8---
> While DSDcc is intended to be patent-free, `mbelib` that it uses
> describes functions that may be covered by one or more U.S. patents
> owned by DVSI Inc. The source code itself should not be infringing as it
> merely describes possible methods of implementation. Compiling or using
> `mbelib` may infringe on patents rights in your jurisdiction and/or
> require licensing. It is unknown if DVSI will sell licenses for software
> that uses `mbelib`.
> --8<---------------cut here---------------end--------------->8---
> 
> Even if mbelib is free software, I guess the U.S. patent on the
> AMBE standard [1] prevents it from being included in Guix.
> What do you think?

I don't that these patents prevent inclusion. At least, we've never
worked that way in the past.

The question of whether or not a program / package "may be covered by
one or more U.S. patents" is not something that can be known until you
get sued by a patent owner and lose the case (or settle it). It applies
to literally every piece of software.

Basically, if you are making a lot of money with software, then you will
learn which patents you have used, based on the lawsuits filed against
you.

I'm no expert but that's my understanding.

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