Is it or isn’t it? That is the big question people are asking about the clash between Oracle and Google over the Java-based Android system. Oracle acquired Sun System, makers of Java, last January. Sun’s Java provided both licensed and free or open source versions. Java allows developers to write software for a variety of computers and systems. Software developers have created applications for a myriad of devices including mobile phones. Now that Oracle has acquired Sun is Java patented or open source? That is the question Oracles suite against Google will decide.
Since the Google Android software is based on Java, Oracle claims patent infringements while Google says it is open source and not subject to the patents. The implications for developers are enormous as many are concerned that their apps may be thrown into the patent infringement category as well. It could put a huge damper on open source creativity and severely quench Android app development.
