Sure looks like it! I stumbled across the (downloadable) source code for the WD TV on, none other than, WD’s own website.
The zipped file contains the source code for third party copyrighted software licensed under the GNU General Public License (“GPL”), which software may be used in WD TV™ Media Player.
This implies that so long as you comply with the terms of the license agreement (GPL), creating and using “homebrew” for the WD TV, based off this code, appears to be A OK.
It’s times like these when I wish I had more (er, any) coding skillz. Perhaps all the “dream features” mentioned in the last post will come to fruition without Western Digital’s help. Although, I’d still prefer to be running “official” firmware with them included.
Either way, it’s a great sign that WD is open enough (literally) to allow the community @ large to tinker with the software (for non-commercial use). One more reason to support/own this mini black box of fun.
Hmm, I don’t see that language as indicating that they’re giving you any sources for their software. It doesn’t say “the zipped file contains the source code we have derived from GNU GPL licensed software.”
I haven’t downloaded it yet, but it sounds to me like they’re trying to comply with their obligations under section 3 of the GPL (redistribution of GPL’d software), rather than section 2 (derivative works).
I download it, but don’ know how to use it, I donwload it and extrack it, and just leave it like that, don’t know what to do with it.
@Justine: What exactly are you referring to – the firmware update or the source code?
Go here for instructions on installing the latest firmware.
As for the source code, I wasn’t saying it will enable homebrew by itself, rather that skilled coders may be able to create their own firmware by studying this code.
Hope this helps.