what was once free, now a subscription (Java)
Posted: 17-May-2019 2:40pm
Not everyone uses Java (application programming language that's been an industry standard for about 25 years), but I bet everyone reading this has used an application developed using Java. It was always free to use. Not any more, at least for "business" use. I post this as a record of what we already face as software users, and what is surely indicative of more to come.
I also thought it was interesting to see Oracle's license definition of "personal use""
Here's more detail.
Lastly, Google and Oracle have been locked in legal battle over Java for years, here's the latest. "Google filed a petition for writ of certiorari with the Supreme Court of the United States in January 2019 to challenge the two rulings that were made by the Appeals Court towards Oracle's favor. In its petition, Google centered their case on whether copyright extends to a software interface like an API, and whether the use of the Java API by Google fell within fair use as found at the jury trials." [Wikipedia]
I also thought it was interesting to see Oracle's license definition of "personal use""
“Personal Use” refers to an Individual's use of the Programs solely on a desktop or laptop computer under such Individual's control only to run Personal Applications.
“Personal Applications” refers to Applications designed for individual personal use only, such as games or personal productivity tools.
Here's more detail.
Important Oracle Java License Update
The Oracle Java License has changed for releases starting April 16, 2019.
The new Oracle Technology Network License Agreement for Oracle Java SE is substantially different from prior Oracle Java licenses. The new license permits certain uses, such as personal use and development use, at no cost -- but other uses authorized under prior Oracle Java licenses may no longer be available. Please review the terms carefully before downloading and using this product. An FAQ is available here.
Commercial license and support is available with a low cost Java SE Subscription.
Lastly, Google and Oracle have been locked in legal battle over Java for years, here's the latest. "Google filed a petition for writ of certiorari with the Supreme Court of the United States in January 2019 to challenge the two rulings that were made by the Appeals Court towards Oracle's favor. In its petition, Google centered their case on whether copyright extends to a software interface like an API, and whether the use of the Java API by Google fell within fair use as found at the jury trials." [Wikipedia]