License for ESP32 software

[sparks]

Hello!

I have two separate projects both built with ESP-IDF (project_1 and project_2). Project_2 also uses some GPL3.0 files so it is licensed under GPL3.0 itself. I use several app partitions:

-partition_1 - factory app partition (address 0x10000), project1.bin is flashed there
-partition_2 - other app partition (address 0x110000), project2.bin is flashed there

Launch scheme looks like this - if there is a high level on GPIO23, then partition_1 is set as boot partition otherwise partition_2 is boot partition. For example project2.bin is executing and high level is applied to GPIO23 then partition_1 becomes boot partition and ESP32 reboots with

Code: Select all

esp_restart()

So there is only one project executing at any time. The question is - should project1 be licensed under GPL3.0 too just because it is flashed in the same device?

Thanks in advance.

[ESP_Sprite]

Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer. Consult a copyright lawyer if you need to get an actual informed decision.

As far as I read it, the GPLv3 covers a 'program' as the atomic unit it is covering. (Which is kinda confirmed by the fact that e.g. Raspberry Pi OS can deliver a bunch of non-GPL things with it.) I think you could make a very good point that ESP-IDF applications are even more standalone than programs (they don't even link to common libraries) and as such the GPLv3 should only cover them on a per-application basis, that is the requirements of the GPL license in one app should not extend to another app.

[sparks]

Thank you for the answer!
My thoughts are the same as yours at all points of view.