It seems that the new Leica D-Lux 8 camera is open source, and the code is available for download on Leica’s website for free (direct link):
This is a big deal since it will allow third-party software developers to modify and update the camera’s software. I am surprised that this was not mentioned anywhere online. Failed marketing or a mistake? I guess we will find out in the next few hours. I believe this is the first open-source camera from a major manufacturer, and knowing Leica, they like to be the first to introduce crazy ideas. Remember the autofocus story?
Updates:
“This appears to just be open source software that Leica is using whose license terms require them to provide publicly. It does not include the custom, proprietary software that actually makes up the important parts of the camera’s firmware. It’s to Leica’s credit that they’re releasing this, since many manufacturers don’t (in violation of licenses), but I don’t think it opens up any particular possibilities for community customization of D-Lux 8 firmware.” (thanks Thrasher)
“When you use software under the GNU General Public License (GPL) in a product, you are required to make the source code available because the GPL is a copyleft license. This means that any derivative work based on GPL-licensed software must also be released under the same GPL terms. This requires Leica to provide all used software.” (Thanks Martin)
Previous coverage of the new Leica D-Lux 8 camera can be found here.
Check Leica D-Lux 8 availability at:
| Americas | Europe | Asia |
| Adorama / B&H Leica Miami Tamarkin Camera Classic Connection |
Leica Store Lisse Red Dot Cameras Park Cameras | WEX Photo Foto Koch |
Rangefinder Map Camera |
