[NTLUG:Discuss] What's the deal with Java?

[Chris Cox]

Leroy Tennison wrote:
> Concerning OpenOffice.org v2 I saw the comment that Java wasn't free and
> it's causing a stir.  I can download a Java runtime free, right?  I
> presume that the full-blown Java development package isn't free but I
> don't need that to run OpenOffice 2 (using the java dependent features)
> do I?  So what's the big deal?
> 

It's free like the BitKeeper client was (emphasis on "was") free.

Could be viewed as a bait and switch...

There's a reason why the GPL exists.

We use Java here though.  Unlikely to change, even if we have to
pay through the nose for it.  As Sun transitions their company
over the next several years.... look for more hidden fees on
Java.

The big boys... (i.e. BEA) pay big bucks to Sun every year for
"special" Java access.