“UK Linux users are demanding Alcatel release drivers to allow
its SpeedTouch USB ADSL modem to work with the open source
operating system. That, they claim, shouldn’t be too hard: Alcatel
already has Linux drivers but is refusing to release either
binaries or source code.”
“Support for Alcatel’s SpeedTouch USB is essential because it’s
the modem bundled by BT to subscribers of its home ADSL service, BT
Openworld Home 500. … And since other ADSL providers are simply
reselling BT’s products, wherever you go, you’re stuck for Linux
support.”
“The issue for Alcatel appears to be concern over the open
source nature of the OS – it presumably feels that if it releases
Linux drivers they too must be open source. That’s an
understandable perception, even though it’s incorrect. Alcatel
can easily release Linux drivers without exposing its intellectual
property.”