[Python-Dev] No more releases of MacPython-OS9? (original) (raw)

Jack Jansen Jack.Jansen at cwi.nl
Thu Jan 15 15:09:12 EST 2004

[I'm cc-ing python-dev to get some feedback on this issue from a wider community too, let me know if the crowd there don't want this].

There is a serious problem with distributing future versions of MacPython-OS9. While the 2.3.3 installer has been sitting on my machine for the last three weeks I cannot distribute it due to licensing issues with Installer VISE from Mindvision.

Mindvision's licensing scheme is a subscription-based model: you pay a yearly fee based on the number of copies you intend to distribute and whether you're a commercial/noncommercial operation. Built installers continue to work when you don't renew your subscription, but you cannot create new installers. For many years they have had a program whereby shareware and freeware developers could apply for a free license, and MacPython-OS9 installers have been created with Installer VISE for many many years. And, I must say, with great satisfaction on my side: even though MacPython installers have been very complex with 68K versus PowerPC, Classic versus Carbon execution model, inclusion of various optional bits and other issues all handled fairly easily.

However, Mindvision has discontinued the free licensing program. And while there is some leeway for renewing existing freeware licenses apparently I should have applied for that before last october, when the previous license expired (apparently Mindvision thinks that people create installers every couple of days?).

So now I'm looking at three choices:

  1. Stop distributing MacPython-OS9. I was planning to continue the 2.3.X series for as long as I had access to compatible hardware, but as a community service (personally I couldn't be bothered with OS9 anymore:-).
  2. Buy an Installer VISE license. If I read <http://www.mindvision.com/pricing.asp> correctly this would cost $500 per year, probably for the next 2 years. This will only happen if someone else comes up with the money: I don't have it...
  3. Switch to a different installer. Given the complexity of the MacPython distribution (even though it is a lot simpler nowadays, with only Carbon/PPC supported) I don't want to invest time in this. So: someone else will have to step in and create an installer.

I'd like to hear what people think the best course of action is, especially from people who have a current interest in MacPython-OS9 (and/or are willing to donate time or money),

Jack Jansen, <Jack.Jansen at cwi.nl>, http://www.cwi.nl/~jack If I can't dance I don't want to be part of your revolution -- Emma Goldman

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