Flashforge is violating the GNU General Public License (GPL) by distributing modified versions of open-source software without providing the corresponding source code, as the GPL requires. Many of their 3D printers run firmware and software based on projects like Klipper and Orca Slicer, which are licensed under the GPL. Under this license, anyone who distributes modified versions must also make their source code publicly available. However, Flashforge provides only the binary firmware and software, effectively restricting users from studying, modifying, or redistributing the software, which directly conflicts with the principles and legal requirements of the GPL. This practice limits user freedom and undermines the open-source community that created the software.
Please file a complaint, the more complaints they get on the matter the faster and more aggressively they might pursue it. https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-violation.en.html
Orca Slicer and Klipper are community-driven projects developed and maintained by volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to advancing open-source 3D printing software. Unlike large corporations, these projects do not have the legal resources to enforce their GPL license or pursue formal legal action against companies that violate it. By publicly calling out Flashforge for distributing modified software without releasing the source code, we aim to raise awareness of the violation, highlight the importance of respecting open-source licenses, and support the small teams whose work benefits the entire 3D printing community. This call to action is about protecting user rights and promoting transparency, not just enforcing legal obligations.