ubuntu aims (Re: Idea for expanded support of some non-free software

[Jeff Waugh]

<quote who="Philippe Landau">

> >>of these, multimedia is the one lacking most, 
> >>so it would justify the biggest attention.
> >Sure, and we're working on it, [...]
> if, as you wrote, there are around 20 canonical
> employees working on ubuntu, why can not at least
> one concentrate on the field admittedly lacking the most ?

Because you're suggesting we dedicate time to supporting proprietary
software. We are not going to do that, it is not in line with the goals of
the Ubuntu community, or Canonical's sponsorship of it.

> >>>We can provide opportunities for people to provide legal and licensed
> >>>software for using encumbered formats like DVD, everything mpeg, mp3,
> >>>etc.
> >>excellent. is this possible ?
> >Of course.
> this is confusing me: first you write for months that
> you are still looking for legal ways to do this,
> and now you say it is possible just like that ?

It would require patent and software licensing, which would involve non-Free
software that you would have to buy. That is the only way to handle some of
these issues legally. Canonical may pursue this; there are other companies
who could do it too.

Sorry Philippe, I'm not going to continue this thread, I've given you all
the answers I can. We're concentrating on Free Software right now, and will
do what we can within those limitations. You are welcome to contribute to
universe and multiverse if you find redistributable software to solve these
problems, or methods of using the software without redistribution by Ubuntu.

- Jeff

-- 
linux.conf.au 2005: Canberra, Australia                http://linux.conf.au/
 
                        Great minds think different?