Oracle and Google Continue to Battle Over Copyright Allegations
May 6, 2012
Groklaw recently reported on the ongoing copyright lawsuit filed by Oracle against Google over the Java code being used in Android in the article “Judge Alsup Decides He, Not the Jury, Will Decide the Issue of API Copyrightability.”
In the article, the writer provides several transcripts from the trail that support the claim that this is a definite win for Google and highlight Oracle’s pettiness. By allowing Judge Alsup to make the final call in this trial Oracle will be prevented from confusing a non technical jury that doesn’t have a strong understanding of the law.
When quoting another Groklaw writer, the article states:
“So the question is, given that the Java programming language is licensed under GPLv2, are the APIs and associated class libraries necessary to make programs run in the Java language “associated interface definition files?” If so, one could argue that those 37 APIs are a part of the “work as a whole” (the Java programming language) and, thus, also subject to the GPLv2. Interesting.”
When big names like Oracle and Google are involved with a trial, it’s difficult to get an objective jury. Add a lack of technical knowledge to the equation and its nearly impossible for a jury to make a sound and educated ruling.
Once this matter is resolved, Google may face more scrutiny in Europe. Google may not be distracted but I am. The jury seems to be struggling. Whatever the decision, Google and Oracle will be scuffling for months, maybe years.
Cynthia Murrell, May 6, 2012
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