Author: Greg Simpson
Date: 15:27:08 09/18/05
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On September 18, 2005 at 17:50:46, K. Burcham wrote: > > >It seems many programs are below the strength of Fruit. >It is possible that most programmers now have this source code because it was >released. >How much of this high level code can be used in existing programs and everyone >still call their programs legal. >Can it be one line of code, 2 lines of code, 25 lines of code, etc... > >Also is it possible this code could be scattered throughout the existing program >so that when checked by tournament directors, it cannot be detected? > >kb Any program released under the GPL can legally use any or all of the Fruit 2.1 or earlier source. If a tournament director wishes to exclude other engines legally using Fruit's code it should be easy to tell since the source has to be released with the engine. If the source is scattered so much that it is hard to detect it's probably not going to be very effective. A private engine can also use the Fruit code legally without releasing its source as long as it is never sent to anyone (except Fabien). For instance, a private modified version of Fruit 2.1 could be used for internet games legally. How much of the GPLed Fruit's code can be legally be included in a non-GPL program is a judgment the courts would have to make in the end. As a guideline, if it's too much to have occurred just by chance it is probably illegal.
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