Core Viewpoint - The dispute between Vizio and the Software Freedom Conservancy (SFC) centers on Vizio's failure to comply with GPLv2 by not providing the source code for the open-source software used in its smart TVs, leading to a lawsuit by SFC [1][9]. Summary by Sections Legal Proceedings - A recent court ruling mandated that Vizio must provide the source code but is not required to supply the signing keys for firmware upgrades [1]. - The case highlights the ongoing legal battle initiated by SFC in 2021, which accused Vizio of violating GPLv2 and LGPLv2.1 by not providing the complete source code and build scripts to purchasers [16][18]. - The court has recognized that GPL serves as both a copyright license and a contract, allowing SFC's breach of contract claims to proceed [22]. Positions of the Parties - Vizio initially failed to provide the required source code, which is a clear violation of GPLv2 [9]. - SFC attempted to extend the GPLv2 requirements to include installation keys, a claim that Linus Torvalds criticized as lacking legal basis [4][9]. - Both parties exhibited poor conduct during the legal proceedings, with Vizio correcting its practices only under legal pressure [10]. Linus Torvalds' Commentary - Linus Torvalds emphasized that GPLv2 is focused on software freedom and does not impose obligations on hardware access [4][7]. - He criticized SFC for attempting to misinterpret the GPLv2 terms, asserting that the license does not extend to hardware control [11][15]. - Torvalds stated that the core requirement of GPLv2 is to provide source code, not to ensure that users can modify and reinstall software on their devices while maintaining full functionality [14]. Timeline of Events - The timeline of the case includes SFC's initial request for source code in 2018, the lawsuit filed in 2021, and ongoing legal developments expected to continue into 2026 [15][16].