In many ways, tech makes business easier and simplifies otherwise complicated tasks. At the same time, its evolution keeps creating new questions — recently, about concepts of fair use and idea ownership.
In April, the Supreme Court sided with Google in a decade-long legal battle with Oracle over Google's use of a portion of Oracle-owned Java code in its Android system. Oracle claimed that Google had stolen the software, while Google argued that it was common to copy application programming interfaces, or APIs. APIs allow programs, apps and websites to communicate with each other.
The court sided with Google in the complex case. Although the court didn't weigh in on whether companies can copyright APIs, they did rule that Google's use fell under an exception to copyright law known as fair use.
Google had used less than one percent of the code in order to make a new mobile operating system, which the Court deemed was in the public interest.
So what does this mean for tech businesses? Many legal experts said it allows developers and others to create new software and products, and gives startups the ability to enter the market and compete. One attorney told the New York Times that it would even help a group that archives old software, like past editions of Microsoft Excel.
In general, the ruling is seen as a plus for those who intend to make software widely available and compatible with other programs. Consumers can continue to upgrade their products and tech companies can continue creating those products. Experts did caution businesses to be mindful of how they interpret fair use and the benefits of new software.
