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Google has thrown its weight behind Linux, [joining][1] IBM, Oracle and others in the Open Invention Network (OIN), a group that pools Linux patents as a way of deterring potential patent infringement challenges.
The OIN was formed two years ago to allow member to share patents with each other and form a unified front should anyone -- namely Microsoft, masters of Linux FUD -- decide to challenge Linux on the patent front.
Despite Microsoft's frequent blustering about Linux patents, neither it nor any other patent holder has ever sued Linux developers or a Linux distributor.
Google is the seventh company to join OIN and brings with it an undisclosed amount of patents to add to OIN's current stockpile of over 100 Linux related patents.
Chris DiBona, Google's open source programs manager says of the recent announcement, "Linux plays a vital role at Google, and we're strongly committed to supporting the Linux developer community."
The move is also no doubt meant as a message to Microsoft -- don't mess with Linux.
[via [Digg][2]]
[1]: http://www.openinventionnetwork.com/press_release08_06_07.php
[2]: http://digg.com/linux_unix/Google_signs_up_to_become_defender_of_Linux
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