[maemo-developers] [New Developer]: Questions - Python Packaging / Free or Non-Free / Software Licensing

[From: Sanjeev (EIPI)]

Hello,

I am developing a python/QT application for Fremantle.  This is my first
application for Maemo, so I have been on a steep learning curve for the past
2 weeks for things related to the SDK, python, QT, etc.  I finally have it
(mostly) working within scratchbox, and on the device, but it is not yet
packaged.  I am using a proprietary API within the code which requires my
personal credentials to be passed.  The credentials are in the form of a
unique alpha-numeric string.  The company that has issued these credentials
has asked that they are not to be made public.  I am able to use their API
so long as I adhere to this and a few other restrictions that they have in
place.  Some questions I now have:

1. I am researching how to package my python application for
maemo.orgExtras-devel.  Due to the restrictions placed on the API
login credentials,
I am unclear whether the app can use the 'free' distribution.  I am not at
all worried about exposing the source code, but am not sure if that can be
done without revealing the API credentials.  Is there any way to distribute
my application in 'free', or does it have to be under 'non-free'?

2. If it is 'non-free', am I correct in my understanding that none of the
source code gets uploaded to maemo.org?

3. I have seen both pypackager and py2deb being mentioned in the wiki
articles on python packaging.  Which one should I use?  I understand that
pypackager does not have a GUI for Fremantle yet - should I wait for that?

4. Do I use the Extras Assistant [1] after creating my package?  Does it
allow for both free and non-free?

5. Software licensing - I know nothing about this.  What are my options for
free and for non-free?  I understand that Mauku is non-free, and is
therefore under copyright by its developer.

Sorry if any of this is very basic.  My interest in Maemo is now growing
into the area of application development, and that is something that I do
not do professionally.  In fact, I am very far from this area in my day job.

Many thanks,

Sanjeev

[1] https://garage.maemo.org/extras-assistant/index.php


-- 
EIPI
Mobile Tablets! Blog: http://mobiletablets.blogspot.com
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