South African Python expert Simon Cross believes the UK software company application to claim ‘python’ as a trademark is not as major an issue as it is made been out to be.
Opposed by the Python Software Foundation (PSF), Watford-based PO Box Hosting Limited is seeking a European trademark for its cloud services supplied through python.co.uk.
“I think on the whole the trademark bid issue is a bit overblown. It’s legally important, but it’s easy to get too excited about it,” Cross told HumanIPO.
The opening up of the ‘Python case’ upset a lot of programmers who use the word ‘python’ freely in their occupations.
“We put out a call for civility – and we want to emphasize that any hacktivism or threats will end up hurting the Python community in the long run. This is not who we are or how we act,” Van Lindberg, Chairman at PSF, posted on the non-profit organisation’s official blog on Tuesday, February 19.
Cross added: “The latest update I’ve seen from the Python Software Foundation side makes it sound like it’s all being discussed reasonably rationally and will be sorted out somewhat amicably.”
Lindberg expressed his disappointment at the direct attacks on the European company. He confirmed “good-faith negotiations” were underway with Veber and a conclusion will be reached soon.
Cross, who deems the situation “understandable”, thinks Python’s connection with European PSF is strong enough to withstand the software company’s allegations though he admits not to be in touch with matters on legal grounds.
HumanIPO interviewed Cross, also the organiser of national and local hackathons, on his plans to expand South African Python communities.
Cross was involved with the organisation of PyConZA in 2012, and is currently facilitating local hackathons in Woodstock, Cape Town.
The next hackathon will take place on Tuesday, February 26 at the 88mph offices in Woodstock.
