I don't think there's an absolute deadline for when a company must release a product's kernel source under the terms of the GNU General Public License (more commonly known as the GPL), but Dell Streak users are getting antsy.
Dell knows it has to release the Streak's source code at some point, of course, but since there's no indication of when it will actually do so, a small group of users have signed a petition to try to get the company to speed things along and get the kernel out.
What makes the kernel source so attractive, for those who don't know, is that it gives devs an all-access pass to the Streak that can be used to create better custom ROMs, apps, and mods. Its release is also required by the GPL, which is why the Free Software Foundation has previously sued companies that were in violation of the license terms.
Whether or not a signed petition will have any impact on the timing of the release, it's still never a bad idea to support our community. You can sign the petition here.
Thanks, Anon!
Dell doesn’t want their paltry 7 person team being showed up by 1-2 devs. Cause we know with that code a dev will have 2.2 with all of Dells changes and goodies plus some bonus sweetness baked in in no time.
I am very happy you posted this to let people know that Dell is required to release their kernal. Let’s hope this petition gets Dell’s attention.
That’s funny. I was researching this yesterday and there seemed to be no unified voice.
This petition is great. Thanks for posting!
Couldn’t sign or authenticate the sync with my fb or twitter account on my dell streak’s browser
I hate it that I have made myself fall in love with the device, when I know that Dell ins’t committed to it. It really does suit my needs perfectly. But it appears as if Dell is scared to make a splash in uncharted territory. The upcoming battle this Holiday season is going to be what is the idea size for a tablet %’, 7′ or the obligatory 9.7′
Dell, man up and stick to your guns! WE all think that a 5′ tablet/phone is the right choice. But 1.6…. And now dragging your feet on the kernel?
Don’t follow Google’s failed attempt by selling a device of this size and specs ONLY online for starters, people need to feel it in their hands. Be COMMITTED. You will find that the Android Community is loyal, if you are committed to them!
I was pretty sure there is a 30 requirement on releasing the source code. That is what I have read on the XDA forum anyway.
Could you please stop spreading the same misinformation that Dell representatives feed us?
There is no concept of a delayed source release in GPL. So there is no concept of any deadline.
GPL requires a publisher to distribute the source together with the binaries. Or give an information where and how these sources can be obtained. Immediately. One is required to distribute the source at the very same moment one distributes binaries.
Dell violated this term of the license, so automatically the Linux kernel license is ceased for Dell. Dell cannot legally distribute Linux kernel binaries not only in Dell Streak, but in any other device anymore.
Dell has released the Kernel.