License Adjustment and Mainline Integration of TUXEDO Kernel Drivers - TUXEDO Computers

At TUXEDO Computers, we are actively working to align the licensing of our kernel drivers with the requirements of the kernel and Linux communities. This initiative stems from a proposed change to the Linux kernel, which would classify our previously GPLv3-licensed drivers as proprietary. By transitioning to GPLv2+, we lay the foundation for long-term integration into the mainline kernel and enhance support for all Linux users.

Open-Source Drivers: Optimal Support for All Linux Distributions

Open-source hardware drivers are essential to ensuring smooth use of Linux-based operating systems. Our kernel modules are not only included in our own TUXEDO OS but also directly and indirectly support many other distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, openSUSE, Arch Linux, and Manjaro. Our long-term goal is to integrate these modules into the mainline kernel, enabling all Linux distributions to work out of the box without requiring additional drivers or software. However, this process takes time and requires close collaboration with the Linux community.

The modules must be technically flawless and undergo extensive reviews and tests before being accepted by the Linux kernel team. Afterward, distributions need to adopt the updated kernel versions and incorporate them into their software repositories. We are continuously working to accelerate this process, providing all Linux users with a stable and seamless experience. With this approach, we contribute to an open and future-proof Linux ecosystem for everyone.

A Matter of Licensing: Adapting Our Kernel Drivers for the Mainline Kernel

We develop our kernel drivers to enable advanced features like power profiles, keyboard backlighting, and sensor monitoring for TUXEDO laptops. Initially, we chose the GPLv3+ license for our kernel modules, believing that out-of-tree modules could also be used under this license.

However, we missed the exact definition of MODULE_LICENSE(„GPL“) and the license compatibility with the Linux kernel. To address this, we have transitioned all kernel modules to GPLv2+. This change ensures compatibility with the Linux kernel and meets the expectations of the kernel community.

It was never our intention to violate either GPLv2 or GPLv3. We have adjusted the licensing to ensure the best possible collaboration with the community. Werner Sembach, Linux Developer at TUXEDO Computers

All in-house developed drivers, such as gxtp7380, tuxedo_tuxi, and tuxedo_nb02_nvidia_power_ctrl, are now licensed under GPLv2+ and ready to be included in the mainline kernel. This strengthens support for Linux users worldwide.

From GPLv3+ to GPLv2+: Driver Development for the Mainline Kernel

Our goal remains to integrate all drivers into the mainline kernel in the long term. This ensures out-of-the-box support for all Linux distributions and reduces the need for additional drivers or software packages.

At the same time, our drivers are regularly updated to keep pace with the latest hardware generations and developments in the Linux community. Through close collaboration with the open-source community, we ensure that hardware support remains up to date not only for TUXEDO OS but also for distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Arch Linux.