Is it possible browsers, streamers/broadcasters, and users might incur license fees for using H.264?
If they did, it could threaten the freedom of video on the Web in generally, which depends on a level playing field for publishers and viewers. It could also be devastating to free and open source video production tools: not only would those tools violate the patents, but it’s possible users of those tools could be liable for fees. The answer is relatively clear, but only through New Years’ Eve at the end of 2015. From Betanews: As part of its response late yesterday, MPEG LA delivered a statement to multiple sources, including Betanews, announcing that the rights management firm will extend the period for which it will refrain from collecting royalties for use of H.264 in free streaming video, until the last day of 2015. The term of that royalty-free agreement was due to expire at the end of this year. “Products and services other than Internet Broadcast AVC Video,” reads MPEG LA’s statement to Betanews, “continue to be royalty-bearing, and royalties to apply during the next term will
