[mythtv-users] OT Apple vs GPL (Was: THIS IS A NON-COMMERCIAL MAILING LIST)

[Jean-Yves Avenard]

On 19 April 2012 05:01, Simon Hobson <linux at thehobsons.co.uk> wrote:

> It does, fundamentally. If you distribute a binary of a GPLed work, you are
> *required* to also make available the source that can be used to make that
> binary. Since Apple add an extra layer to the binary (the
> encryption/signing) which cannot be replicated without the algorithm and
> private key(s) used by Apple, then that cannot be complied with while also
> complying with Apple's policies.

That is not the primarily reason why GPL is in contradiction with the
AppStore distribution license.
No one prevents you to add in the description of your application a
link to the source code.
Making it available doesn't mean it has to be packaged with the
application itself. Plenty of way to make a source code *available*

What is the primary contradiction with the GPL is that Apple enforce
extra restriction through their DRM. You can't install the application
you purchase on more than 5 devices, and you can't re-distribute it.
GPL strictly forbid applying re-distribution restrictions.

Don't like Apple's way of doing things? here is an easy solution for
you: Don't buy an iOS device, and don't buy apps.
Buying an iPhone only to complain later that you can't do whatever you
want with it is a bit hypocritical. The restrictions are well known up
front.

Screaming "Freedom!" or "GPL!", yet buy an iOS device anyway shows
that really, moral rectitude is only skin deep.