The Open Invention Network (OIN) is a voluntary patent cross-license community intended to reduce patent risk for Linux and selected adjacent open-source software. Members make reciprocal patent commitments, but the protection is bounded by OIN’s defined “Linux System”—not every open-source project, every patent claim, or every possible dispute.
How OIN membership works
OIN says its community uses patent cross-licensing and non-aggression commitments to support freedom of action for software within the Linux System. As OIN puts it on its “How We Work” page, “We accomplish this goal by cross-licensing patents within our community to clear patent risk in Open Source.”
Under the agreement, a member commits to cross-license its own patents with claims that read on core Linux or open-source functionality and not to assert those patents against other OIN community members. In return, the member receives the community cross-license. Those commitments apply within the agreement’s defined software scope; they should not be read as covering unrelated products or software outside that scope. See OIN’s OIN 2.0 FAQs and description of how it works.
What software is in the Linux System?
The Linux System is a defined list of software packages and releases, not a synonym for all open-source software. OIN’s Linux System Definition & Components page says its OIN 2.0 definition, effective January 27, 2026, covers components generally available under an open-source license or in the public domain and distributed with, or for use with, the Linux Kernel.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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OIN says proposed package additions are assessed for maturity, adoption, licensing, and governance, and that definition updates typically follow an 18–24 month cycle. OIN announced that the Linux System contained 5,181 packages on January 27, 2026; that is OIN’s reported figure, not an independently audited count.
How to check whether your software is in scope
- Identify the software packages and releases your organization uses.
- Compare them with the components and definition on OIN’s Linux System page.
- Check whether your organization is covered by OIN 1.0 or has signed the OIN 2.0 agreement.
- For a concrete patent, licensing, or compliance question, consult qualified legal counsel. OIN recommends that organizations review their open-source use against the definition; such a review does not by itself resolve every legal risk.
What changed with OIN 2.0?
OIN says OIN 2.0 and Table 13 took effect on January 27, 2026. The agreement version matters because existing membership does not automatically expand to include the new table.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Membership status | Applicable agreement and Linux System coverage |
|---|---|
| OIN 1.0 signatory who has not signed the revised agreement | OIN says the member remains under the 1.0 agreement and Tables 0–12; Table 13 is not automatically included. |
| Member who has signed the revised OIN 2.0 agreement | OIN 2.0 applies, including Table 13 and subsequent expansions as provided under the agreement. |
OIN directs existing members to execute the revised agreement to receive Table 13 and later expansions. Check the OIN 2.0 FAQs for the transition details.
Who can join, and does membership cost money?
OIN says patent ownership is not required to participate, so developers and organizations that use open-source software but hold no patents may still join. OIN describes participation as free for individuals and small businesses, while medium-sized and larger companies pay annual fees based on revenue. The amount depends on company details and current terms; consult OIN’s membership information rather than relying on a general estimate.
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- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What OIN’s membership figures do—and do not—show
OIN’s Corporate Overview reports more than 4,100 organizations, more than 3 million active patents, and more than US$10 trillion in combined member revenue. These are figures published by OIN, not independently verified measures of effectiveness. They do not establish how many disputes the network has prevented or show that membership eliminates the possibility of litigation.
OIN also describes defensive support through its Defense Strategies materials. Those descriptions explain OIN’s approach; they are not a guarantee that a particular member will avoid a claim or prevail in a dispute.
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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