The reach of open-source software is extensive. It is in every conceivable device that people use – which increasingly includes appliances. You can’t have smart devices without an operating system, and the de facto operating system in appliances is Linux, paired with sensor devices that also utilize embedded Linux.
Sweden-based Electrolux Group is a leading global appliance company that has been operating for more than 100 years. Its group of appliance brands includes Electrolux, AEG, and Frigidaire. It sells approximately 60 million household products in around 120 markets every year.
To protect its investment in, and promote the expansion of Linux, Electrolux is joining other appliance leaders LG and Haier as a member of the Open Invention Network Community. By joining the Open Invention Network Electrolux is gaining open-source software patent protection from would-be aggressors.
“We continuously look for ways to integrate the best technologies in our appliances, which helps to shape living for the better. It also helps us achieve our goal of continuous improvement in appliance sustainability,” said Fabio Albanese, Head of Engineering, Connected Electronics Platform at Electrolux. “We are pleased to join the Open Invention Network and support its role in protecting open-source software.”
Open Invention Network was formed to safeguard open source and is now the largest patent non-aggression community in history. It supports freedom of action in Linux as a key element of open-source software. Funded by Google, IBM/Red Hat, NEC, Philips, Sony, SUSE, and Toyota, Open Invention Network has more than 3,800 community members. Its patent license and member cross-licenses are available royalty-free to any party that joins its community.
“Advanced capabilities and intelligence are propelling ongoing innovation within the white goods industry. These innovations make the appliances more effective while increasing sustainability. A key driver of these capabilities is the open source software that drives the appliance platform, as well as embedded Linux in the innumerable sensors that enable intelligent appliances,” said Keith Bergelt, CEO of Open Invention Network. “As a global leader in the development and sales of appliances, we are pleased that Electrolux Group is committed to patent non-aggression in core Linux and adjacent open-source technologies.”
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