Android Tricorder Killed By CBS 247
First time accepted submitter josn writes "Today I found out that Moonlight's Tricorder app, which I always install on Android devices, is gone. Google received a DMCA letter from CBS. I think it is a shame that CBS thinks it needs to kill a free and open source project giving a ad-less app. I, for one, sent a message to CBS explaining that this fan-supported app is not bad, but good for them, and asked them to reconsider. I hope, especially for the author, who must have spent a lot of time on this app, that they do."
Re:Another reason not to develop android apps (Score:5, Insightful)
As if a stupid little app that just looks like a Star Trek tricorder doesn't qualify as "complete shit". Whoever developed that ought to be using their time on more productive pursuits.
Like what? Posting on Slashdot?
Just sayin'
Damned if the do damned if they don't (Score:2, Insightful)
Everyone always thinks it's an evil corporation trying to spoil fun but there's a fundamental reason. If they don't defend trademarks and copyrights then other corporations can use the names to sell products. What's to stop Apple or Microsoft from releasing a new PDA or tablet computer called a "Tricorder"? They can say CBS failed to enforce the trademark so it no longer applies. What if the device sucks and the name Tricorder takes on negative image or worse yet becomes a bad joke? Then their trademark overall is damaged and it wasn't even from a product they produced. Trademarks are like left over budget money, use it or loose it or in this can enforce it. Change the law so they don't have to enforce every instance and create a system where freeware and small providers can ask to use the name and maybe things would be different.