http://games.slashdot.org/games/06/10/08/1754219.shtml

check it out.

They don't know what they are talking about. The Wii is upgradeable, but its probably not going to use Linux, becuase doesn't that mean they would have to release the source code?

Besides...there is no source, just some guy who emailed them.

So no, they wouldn't have to release the source code.

But that's a GPL violation.

If its proprietary, then how does it violate the GPL?

You can't take the linux kernel and make it proprietary because to begin with it's licensed under the GPL, and the GPL does not allow this.

Not true. The Playstation runs on Linux. I've never seen source code from Sony. Cell phones run on Linux, I've never seen source code from Nokia or Samsung. Granted your kernel is (under the GPL), your whole distro is probably. But just because its "Linux" doesn't mean it can't be closed source.

NO, the released a linux dev kit for enthusiasts. They still actually use their own proprietary, much more specialized kernel.

As long the program utilizes kernel source code, it has to be GPL and therefore open source. The only way to "circumvent" this is to use binary objects independent of code, a create open source wrappers.

I heard this about the PS3. But if I can't run bash and use gcc to compile stuff written with vim, then I don't give a s*** or believe it. I would like to have a Wii to play the next Super Smash Bros. title, though.

If they did any modifcation to the kernel, they need to release the source code "if you ask them".

If they did any modifcation to existing software which is GPL they need to release the source code "if you ask them".

But they don't need to release the source code of software which isn't modified or use functions of other code which is GPL. Since it don't have anything to do with GPL.

Also, what alot of company do is they release the source code, but they don't tell you how they all fit together. It's not as easy as it see even if they release the code.

Loop holes almost seem unfair, huh?

Who wants to ask Nintendo for the source code for the Wii's kernel?

lol you crack me up. And do what with it? Poop on it?

No seriuosly though, even if I had Nintendo's source code, how that would help me? I can think of no use for the source code to Wii's kernel.

Find a way around the Virtual Console DRM? Figure out a way to run homebrew..etc.

I don't think they would have to release the code that would compromise the security of the Virtual Console DRM because that is a closed source component sorta like an ATI driver or a dial-up winmodem driver and not a part of the Linux kernel. Not that it really matters since everyone who wants retro gaming has been emulating their favorite consoles of their childhood using a PC and free emulators. The Wii better have some good titles (and I know it will) because I'm not paying $5 for an 8-bit game when Grand Theft Auto:SA for the PC is only $20 and costed much more money to develop than most NES titles combined :P.