We are developing an automatic machine learning software for researchers under a GPL license. This will allow them to use different ML algorithms on their data. Is it possible to offer an additional proprietary algorithm as a plug-in for a fee? The application wouldn't depend on the proprietary plug-in, neither they would be included in the base bundle and would be downloaded separately.
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3Is this software developed de novo in-house, or does it use anybody else's GPL components?– MadHatter ♦Commented Mar 5, 2020 at 12:27
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@MadHatter nope, we would develop everything. of course, later, anybody could contribute to the GPL code.– sitnarfCommented Mar 8, 2020 at 14:07
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1See also this GNU FAQ: If I write a plug-in to use with a GPL-covered program, what requirements does that impose on the licenses I can use for distributing my plug-in? and the FAQs it links to.– Bart van Ingen SchenauCommented Mar 9, 2020 at 12:27
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@BartvanIngenSchenau Thanks, that link probably approximates the answer best. :)– sitnarfCommented Mar 9, 2020 at 17:41
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1 Answer
If the code is all yours, you can do whatever you want. If it is based on/includes other GPL code, you must distribute under GPL or you aren't allowed at all to distribute the result.
GPL code to be combined with closed plugins goes against the spirit of GPL, so that makes not much sense. But you certainly can add a special dispensation to use closed plugins using the public interface to your code. Murky, to say the least.
Check out the LGPL, it might be nearer what you want (it allows linking to closed source).
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Thanks. I extended the information in the original post. We wouldn't like LGPL, because GPL provides better protection against somebody overtaking the project and making it proprietary.– sitnarfCommented Mar 8, 2020 at 14:10