[Sci/Tech] Sun Microsystems is to pay $1bn for open source database developer MySQL.

[enouwee]

MySQL's open source databases are widely used online, but Sun is hoping to increase their use in more traditional IT and enterprise settings. The database is used by many websites - 50,000 copies a day are downloaded.

MySQL will be integrated into Sun's Software, Sales and Services organisation. MySQL's CEO Marten Mickos will join Sun's senior executive team, and a group of staff from both companies will sort out the integration.

Read on...

 

[DDRtists]

Boo.

 

[ReVolver]

Boo.

Well you can't just say that, more % of people use java.

http://www.developer.com/lang/article.php/3390001

 

[The Helper]

1 Billion for MySQL. Cheap at twice the price I tell ya - properly marketed. I just cannot see someone paying so much for a free product though. Might not look good for us MySQL users for free anymore

 

[phyrex1an]

I just cannot see someone paying so much for a free product though.

For those that wants to pay they have this: https://shop.mysql.com/enterprise/

I don't think MySQL will change to proprietary, Sun have made many moves towards the "open source community" and changing MySQL in that way will most likely void any generated goodwill. Besides, changing license doesn't affect previous versions so anyone that wants can continue free development. GPL isn't called a legal virus for nothing

 

[AceHart]

This is just the little push that PostgreSQL needed

SUN will bring MySQL down, no worries there.

 

[The Helper]

Logical1 - the TH.net hacker says postgres is better. So do all my other friends in RL. Why don't we use it besides the compatibility issue LOL.

 

[InfectedWithDrew]

Sun will leave MySQL free.

Sun creates OpenOffice. It could make huge money by selling the suite for a small fee but it distributes it freely. Don't worry, this is more than likely good news.

 

[The Helper]

Yeah but why? Where do they make money? How do they have a billion standing to buy a free service? There is no advertising in MySQL. This is not MySpace.

I bet the Executive Package is Kicking!

 

[ReVolver]

Maybe they plan to make a new Mysql version that is exclusive made by Sun and by buying the company there is no competition or law suites.

 

[The Helper]

Maybe they think that Google might want it at 4 Billion if they throw a little somthing something at it? Its worth 4 Billion right now at its lowest. The potential for MySQL even as a 5 dollar license with 1 dollar upgrades is huge. Every little website out there could absorb that cost and mysql could take over the internet.