SCO fleshes out stance in Tokyo

In a press conference in Tokyo on Wednesday, Darl McBride, SCO Group CEO, reiterated his focus on the company's server business and the allegation that Linux infringes on Unix intellectual property. However, he chose not to talk about relations with the newly formed Consumer Electronics Linux Forum members.

"I am here to discuss with some large Linux vendors about their businesses, so that both sides can find mutually acceptable solutions for the alleged Linux IP infringement issues," said McBride, in response to a question about the purpose of his visit to Japan.

He referred to the lawsuit that SCO filed against IBM as a last resort, and that he would like to avoid the same course of action with any other party.

"Actually, Microsoft and Sun Microsystems discussed with us, and got licences from us. I expect we can repeat it with some Japanese counterparts" said McBride. Also he added that SCO are now under discussion with Hewlett-Packard about Unix licensing.

However, he did not reveal any specific names of companies he is to meet during his visit.

When asked about the implications of the newly formed CE Linux Forum, whose membership includes Sony, Matsushita (Panasonic) and other Japanese heavyweights, McBride said he has no specific ideas about what they are doing, as well as any action plan that involves them for the future.

Michiko Nagai writes for CNET Japan.