Linux backers buy up software patents

According to the Wall Street Journal the nonprofit company, called Open Invention Network, is getting shedloads of cash from the likes of IBM, Sony, Philips, Novell and Red Hat.

The big idea is to buy Linux-related patents, offering royalty-free licenses to companies and individuals that pledge not to assert their own patents against the network's other licensees.

Although Linux patent suits are rare, it is possible that patent holders could try to compel sellers or users of such software to pay royalties.

Microsoft has been warning potential Open Source customers about patent issues being one of the most risky parts of using open-source software.

There is also the fear that troll-like companies might buy up patents with no other idea in mind other than charging others for using them.

More here on the Wall Street Journal and it is free this week, here. µ