from TMP_NKcYUEoM7kXg4qYe@lemmy.world to linux@lemmy.ml on 28 Jul 08:29
https://lemmy.world/post/33585765
This article has been recently posted on Hackernews. It clarifies the misconceptions about GPLv2 and GPLv3 regarding the installation of user-modified software on devices running copylefted firmware.
TLDR: If you purchase a device running GPLv2 software (eg. Linux), you have the right to run modified version of the software on said device. The GPLv3 additionally requires that proprietary software running on said device does not intentionally break itself when you change the GPLv3 software.
GPL violators try to argue that they may prevent users from installing modified version of GPLv2 software, thinking that only the GPLv3 protects against that, but that is not the case. The 3rd version adds clauses regarding proprietary software shipped alongside the GPL software. But the Free Software is already protected by the 2nd version!
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