StartupSearch

Welcome to the July 2 edition of the Startup Search Weekly Web Wrapup. Each week we summarize news and announcements affecting the web technology ecosystem. In this week's issue: live Internet broadcasts of iPhone anticipation, how GPL v3 affects the Web, and Meebo finds new partners.

Apple iPhone lines streamed live

Apple released the iPhone last Friday at 6 p.m. ending months of anticipation from the technology community. Lines outside AT&T and Apple retail locations wrapped around the block as fans camped outside for days to be one of the first people in their city to own the new mobile computing device. Lifestreaming companies Justin.tv and Ustream.tv provided live capture and streaming distribution for a few fans waiting in line, attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers in the 24 hours before the phone went on sale.

GNU GPL v3

The Free Software Foundation released version 3 of the GNU General Public License on Friday, the first major update to the popular open source license in 16 years. The GPL license governs the use of the Linux kernel, compiler software, and 66% of open source software projects tracked by Freshmeat.net.

The latest version of the license addresses the intellectual property landscape, software patents, and compatibility with other open source licenses, among other issues. Companies shipping GPL-licensed software must not block or refuse to communicate with modified software. The new license affects companies such as TiVo and DRM providers from interfering with modifications. The new license also includes a software as a service clause and lets software authors specify additional restrictions and requirements for their contributions.

Meebo Rooms adds commercial partners

Web-based chat company Meebo upgraded its new Meebo Rooms product with support for paid member features and partner integration. The Meebo partners program hosts interactive chat rooms for partner brands such as Capitol Records, RockYou, and VH1. Partners can customize their chat room's look and feel with custom skins, receive increased room capacities, and can track traffic and advertising performance.