OIN [Open Invention Network] is a group that shares all of their Linux patents with each other. Google has also become the first end-user licensee of OIN.1
OIN “is an intellectual property company that was formed to promote Linux by using patents to create a collaborative environment. It promotes a positive, fertile ecosystem for Linux, which in turns drives innovation and choice in the global marketplace. This helps ensure the continuation of innovation that has benefited software vendors, customers, emerging markets and investors.”2
It includes such members as IBM, Oracle, Red Hat, Novell, Philips, NEC and Sony.1
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Notes:
(1) Information Week, Google to Join Group to Protect Linux.
(2) Open Invention Network.
