Winamp entirely deletes GitHub repository after controversial source code release
A few weeks after releasing the source code of its legacy editor, Winamp has deleted the GitHub repository containing the code. The release, managed by Winamp's Belgian owner, Llama Group, was initially intended to allow developers to contribute to the evolution of the software. The source code was made available on September 24 under a custom license called the Winamp Collaborative License (WCL) Version 1.0. This license notably included a “No Forking” clause, prohibiting the creation, maintenance, or distribution of forked versions of the software.
This clause quickly drew criticism from the GitHub community, as it violated GitHub's terms of service and contradicted the notion of open source. Despite the license restrictions, the source code was forked over 2,600 times before the repository's removal. The deletion marks a controversial chapter in Winamp's efforts to engage with the developer community and modernize its legacy software.
- Audio Player
- Free • Proprietary
Related news
External links
- Winamp deletes entire GitHub source code repo after a rocky few weeksArs Technica
- Releasing WinAmp source goes badly – for its owners, anywayThe Register
- Winamp’s Code Pulled From GitHub Following Messy ReleaseHow-To Geek
- Winamp owner deletes 'Open Source' repository after a bumpy month on GitHubTom's Hardware
- Winamp source code vanishes from GitHubBetaNews
Comments
This leaves the question of are any of the forks an actual improvement? And what ones are even legit? This decision I can see leading to malware.
I like WACUP ("WinAmp Community Update Project") player that interface looks like old Winamp :)
I use the SMplayer, WinAmp is too Vintage for me and also proprietary soft which even fails to make it OpenSource as seen.
Real ones use VLC Media Player to play music
It's alright if you want to play internet radio streams but other than that I dont enjoy how it handles music files.
Winamp is a 90s classic, so I was intrigued when they announced that Winamp would have its source published. I'm not familiar enough with the legalities, but it will be interesting to see where these forks will go. Can/should someone publish a Winamp variant based on code that has been recalled? I'll probably stick to AIMP for now, if I want my retro, old-school MP3 player fix.