tech
Yearslong fight over users' right to tweak smart TV software heads to trial
Access to TV OS’s source code could allow users to limit ads, tracking.
TL;DR
- The Software Freedom Conservancy (SFC) is suing Vizio to obtain the complete source code for its Linux-based smart TV operating system.
- The lawsuit alleges Vizio breached GPLv2 and LGPLv2.1 by failing to provide all necessary files and scripts for compiling the source code.
- Vizio claims the SFC cannot enforce the GPL licenses as a third-party beneficiary.
- The case could set a precedent for user control over smart TV software, potentially allowing for ad-blocking, tracking limitations, and extended device support.
- The Freedom Software Foundation (FSF) supports the SFC's efforts, asserting that access to source code is fundamental to software freedom.
- A judge previously ruled that Vizio must provide source code allowing modification and distribution, but not necessarily guaranteeing a modified OS will maintain device operability.
- Linus Torvalds, creator of the Linux kernel, supported the judge's finding that GPLv2 focuses on making source code available, not controlling hardware access.
- The trial is scheduled for August, with a ruling expected three to six months later.