Patent Lawyer Magazine, February 18, 2025 — The Open Invention Network (OIN) has surpassed 4,000 members, strengthening its mission to protect Open Source innovation from patent risks. Supported by Google, IBM/Red Hat, NEC, Philips, Sony, SUSE & Toyota, OIN enables cross-licensing of patents to safeguard Linux & adjacent Open Source technologies.
Recent members include Anker, BBC, China Mobile, Electrolux, Foxconn, NatWest, Olympus & Wells Fargo. CEO Keith Bergelt emphasizes Open Source collaboration is driving innovation, especially in AI. Research shows that 40% of businesses contribute to Open Source code daily, with 60% doing so weekly.
OIN members collectively hold over 3 million patents, reinforcing patent non-aggression policies. Its Linux System definition now covers 4,500+ software packages across industries like automotive, fintech, cloud & IoT. OIN’s expansion highlights the growing commitment to protecting Open Source technologies & fostering collaborative innovation worldwide.