I'm not going to modify the components but to use them in my Flash movies, so the supplemental license doesn't apply here but the main End User Licensing Agreement (EULA) for Flash MX 2004. It seems the EULA gives me permission to distribute the components I use in my movies, as part of the compiled movie and also to provide the source code. I think it is common practise to publish .fla files including these components on web sites. See the quote from the EULA for Flash MX 2004 below.
Code in Flash movies typically relies on functionality provided by these components. In Flash a text box for example with a scroll bar would be difficult, possibly impossible to do without using the components provided by Macromedia.
As you can see below the EULA allows distributing the components but with certain restrictions. My question is really is their a way to include code with some restrictions like this to be distributed with a project like Moodle licensed under the GPL.
I wonder does this EULA just grant me the right to distribute the components or if I can distribute them then does it also mean others can distribute them.
Does this EULA exert below look like it might be GPL compatible ?? :
Unless otherwise set forth in the documentation relating to such code and/or the Software or in a separate agreement between you and Macromedia, you may modify the source code form of those portions of such software programs that are identified as sample code, sample application code, or components (each, "Sample Application Code") in the accompanying documentation solely for the purposes of designing, developing and testing websites and website applications developed using Macromedia software programs; provided, however, you are permitted to copy and distribute the Sample Application Code (modified or unmodified) only if all of the following conditions are met: (1) you distribute the compiled object Sample Application Code with your application; (2) you do not include the Sample Application Code in any product or application designed for website development; and (3) you do not use Macromedia's name, logos or other Macromedia trademarks to market your application. You agree to indemnify, hold harmless and defend Macromedia from and against any loss, damage, claims or lawsuits, including attorney's fees, that arise or result from the use or distribution of your application.
*Taken from http://www.macromedia.com/software/eula/tools/
There is a clause in the GPL license that libraries that are normally part of an OS or compiler may be linked to without providing the code but since the Flash components are actually compiled into the final Flash movie these Flash components presumably don't fall within this clause.
Just thinking a loud here really. I guess I'm going to have to write to Macromedia but I want to investigate and understand the issue as much as I can before I write to them.
Jamie