mp3licensing.com

[firemamba]

Hi,

My understanding is that software developers need a license to make MP3 decoders.

So, technically since the software (firmware) of the original device is not being used shouldn't the software (firmware) replacing it be licensed to decode MP3's.

I did see a discussion on this, but does anyone have a firm answer or know where one could find one.

Thanks.

[soap]

Are you curious or are you concerned?

[saratoga]

My understanding is that software developers need a license to make MP3 decoders.

You may be interested in the wikipedia article about mp3:

Additionally, patent holders declined to enforce license fees on free and open source decoders, which allows many free MP3 decoders to develop.[59] Thus, while patent fees have been an issue for companies that attempt to use MP3, they have not meaningfully impacted personal use.

Essentially the mp3 IP holders realized about a decade ago that going after people who develop value for their IP made about as much sense as trying to tie your shoes with a shotgun blast.

I did see a discussion on this, but does anyone have a firm answer or know where one could find one.

Yes, a site like Hydrogenaudio where audio compression and audio technology is on topic.