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Date: 22 Jun 2003 02:11:23 -0400
Subject: Re: [PHP-DEV] removing bundled libmysql
From: sterling@bumblebury.com (Sterling Hughes)


> Zak is already working on license problems, incompatibility and possible 
> solutions. Wouldn't it be better to give him and MySQL AB a little bit more 
> time?
> 

What would've been better if MySQL provided a suitable option before
they changed their licenses to the GPL.  This is MySQL's mess not ours,
and its theirs to cleanup, if they so desire.  MySQL certainly wouldn't
rest their release cycle on undefined PHP license changes which were
promised in an indeterminate period of time.

I just want to add here, that I'm pro-mysql.  I don't particularly like
how the change was done, or the fact that the MySQL library is GPL. 
That said, I'm certainly not trying to dictate their licensing policy,
I'm a programmer, not a lawyer or business person.  I also have full
confidence that Zak (and MySQL AB too ;) will work out a license
exception that is suitable for PHP's needs.

Further, keep in mind that this is a beta.  Its still a good 6-9 months
(at least) before a final PHP5 release.  If MySQL provides a suitable
solution in the interim, I would frankly be overjoyed to re-add mysqli. 
As for debundling libmysql, well, it really makes sense that it happens
regardless.  First of all, I seriously doubt that a suitable exception
will exist (ie, enabling it by default).  Further, redistributing an old
version of the library that doesn't work with MySQL 4.1, is back
asswards.  If users want MySQL, they can explicitly enable it, and be
aware what version they are using.

-Sterling

-- 
"Programming today is a race between software engineers stirring to  
 build bigger and better idiot-proof programs, and the universe trying  
 to produce bigger and better idiots. So far, the universe is winning." 
    - Unknown