Must the copyright owner release GPLv3 derivative works?

Matthew Flaschen matthew.flaschen at gatech.edu
Sat Sep 8 16:43:38 UTC 2007


Walter van Holst wrote:
> Also, if all derivative works based upon the GPLv3 offering must remain
>> licensed under the GPLv3, can derivative works based upon the commercial
>> license offering remain private?
> 
> 
> Exactly.

Well, maybe.  "Commercial license" is not very descriptive, as it
actually runs the gamut from a Microsoft EULA to GPLv3.  However, the
basic point is clear: A copyright holder can license a work under GPLv3
as well as a proprietary, commercial license that allows derivative
works with private source code.  Those with the proprietary license are
not subject to the conditions of GPLv3.

Matt Flaschen



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