Graal: [licensing] GPLv2 impact for projects using native-image

[lbialy]

I've noticed that most stuff here is licensed under GPLv2 with small modifications, most notably SubstrateVM is. Am I right to assume that every application compiled using native-image tool has to be released under GPLv2 since SubstrateVM is statically linked?

[thomaswue]

We are in the process of adding Classpath Exception to all components that can form part of the resulting native image.

[djhaskin987]

Does that mean I don't have to license something as gpl if I build it using native-image?

[thomaswue]

Yes, correct.

[jakirkham]

What about Docker images where components of this stack may need to be bundled to run an application?

[fcurts]

Is this coming soon? A clear guidance on licensing would be very welcome.

[thomaswue]

@jakirkham Distribution is generally allowed. See point "3." of GPL+CPE for details. https://github.com/oracle/graal/blob/master/compiler/LICENSE.md

@fcurts Yes, this is coming soon. We treat this as top priority and will also add a clarifying guidance re licensing.

[djhaskin987]

I apologize -- to be super clear, it sounds like if I use native-image to compile my source code, once native-image is licensed with the classpath exception, I'll be able to distribute that binary even though my code is using a different, incompatible license to the GPL without the classpath exception?

[dougxc]

Hi @djhaskin987 , we are working on enhancing the FAQ to provide a clear response to this and other related legal questions.

[djhaskin987]

I'm on the edge of my seat

On Mon, Sep 17, 2018, 8:30 AM Douglas Simon [e-mail]
wrote:

Hi @djhaskin987 https://github.com/djhaskin987 , we are working on
enhancing the FAQ http://www.graalvm.org/docs/faq/ to provide a clear
response to this and other related legal questions.

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[Tradias]

Any updates on this?

[thomaswue]

The first question at https://www.graalvm.org/docs/faq/ contains information regarding licensing. We cannot give specific legal advice. When creating a native image, code ending up in the binary image in addition to your application code includes JDK code as well as SubstrateVM code; both of which is licensed via GPL 2 + Classpath exception. See the section "CLASSPATH" EXCEPTION TO THE GPL at https://openjdk.java.net/legal/gplv2+ce.html for more information about the Classpath exception. It specifically addresses a scenario where GPLv2+CPE code is linked with other code.