In that case, hackers gained access to source code under development for an unidentified future product.
Non-Microsoft programmers have long asked for equal access to the source code--but Microsoft has steadfastly refused to give it.
Sun's OpenOffice.org project should be ready by October and will not only give users access to open-source code but will also provide filters to allow Sun customers to use Microsoft's rival products.
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It stands in contrast to the closed or proprietary systems of Microsoft and Apple who restrict access to the core or source code for their operating systems.
And Microsoft used its Windows monopoly to help its applications division--the programmers who write software like Microsoft Word--by giving them preferred access to the complex Windows source code.
CenterPoint's network was engineered by ibm and runs on open-source software, meaning anybody can access the underlying code to develop new products to ride on the communications system CenterPoint is building.
Reiser's argument in his lawsuit was that Microsoft has denied Namesys access to the central facilities, the source code, necessary for him to provide a source code patch.
It signed a deal earlier this year to source phones from an undisclosed Asian contractor that will work with the carrier's chosen technology, code-division multiple access (CDMA).
Yes, Android might be "open" in the sense that the source code is available, but there's no doubt Google's wielded incredible power over the platform by restricting access to Market and its own apps -- power that hasn't been used to prevent carrier-mandated bloatware or poorly-done manufacturer skinning, but has instead apparently been used to block legitimate competitors like Skyhook from doing business.
ENGADGET: Skyhook: Google forced Motorola to drop our location service, delay the Droid X
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