Re: [gNewSense-users] MP3s xmms2 -uhh?

[Ali Gunduz]

> Why CAN I play mp3's in my gNewSense?

gNewSense is committed to providing only free software both in the
default installation and in its repositories. As long as the decoder
program is free, it does not conflict with this principle.

However, mp3 is a patented format itself and, therefore, brings
restrictions on the developer and even the user due to highly
criticized legal regulations. So, it is advised by freedom advocates
to either avoid files in such formats or convert them to their free
counterparts, such as OGG Vorbis.

David, in short, the codec installed in your system is free software
but the standards it is using are prohibited to the community using
perverted laws. You would be better off having it in a free format.

Ali