Open Invention Network (OIN)

IBM, Sony, Philips, Red Hat and Novell have formed Open Invention Network (OIN), an organization to share Linux patents without royalties. The move is aimed to solve ownership rights problems encountered by distributors (represented by Red Hat and Novell) and users in lawsuits on Linux shareware fees. If OIN is successful, this could lead to Linux mass adoption and be a serious threat to Microsoft. IDC estimates that Linux software sales could grow with a CAGR of 26% to reach $40bn by 2008.