Luis Chamberlain sent out the modules changes today for the Linux 6.6 merge window. Most notable with the modules update is a change that better builds up the defenses against NVIDIA’s proprietary kernel driver from using GPL-only symbols. Or in other words, bits that only true open-source drivers should be utilizing and not proprietary kernel drivers like NVIDIA’s default Linux driver in respecting the original kernel code author’s intent.

Back in 2020 when the original defense was added, NVIDIA recommended avoiding the Linux 5.9 for the time being. They ended up having a supported driver several weeks later. It will be interesting to see this time how long Linux 6.6+ thwarts their kernel driver.

  • poweruser@lemmy.sdf.orgEnglish
    5·
    1 year ago

    you aren’t necessarily yet violating GPLv2, but you’re removing a technical protection measure which is a violation of the DMCA.

    Isn’t overcoming a technical limit a violation itself? That’s what made DeCSS illegal. They didn’t have to prove anyone was actually copying DVDs with it, just that DeCSS could allow you to copy a DVD

    • yum13241@lemm.ee
      1·
      1 year ago

      Yes, even if it’s a dialog box with only a “No” button, despite how easy it would be to get it to return a different value.

      DISCLAIMER: IANAL, this is not legal advice.