What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
" Limited License Back. Massdrop does hereby grant Designer a limited, non-exclusive and revocable license to use Massdrop’s Joint Inventions solely to the extent necessary for Designer to (i) perform Designer’s obligations under this Agreement; and (ii) to request manufacture of, and purchase, Products solely from the manufacturer designated in Exhibit C, and to sell products incorporating such Products to end users. Input Club (itself or with or through other entities) agrees to not distribute or sell such Products to resellers or distributors. "
Ergo they were entirely not breaking the contract in any way. The key phrase in there is: "and to SELL PRODUCTS INCORPORATING SUCH PRODUCTS TO END USERS". That would mean nothing about running the Whitefox on Kickstarter (MEANS DIRECTLY TO END USERS) with Halo switches (SELL PRODUCTS INCORPORATING SUCH PRODUCTS) broke any terms of the contract.
I would also consider silence from MD tacit acceptance that this part of the contract is correct and they have acted in a discriminatory manner toward IC for not selling through this site.
Doesn't really change anything regarding the overall situation, but there was never going to be a batch of Halo's sold on MD in the near future. I'm guessing MD is waiting for the k-type drop to be fulfilled prior to launching a buy for those switches, which will likely still happen.
However, since this is dealing with a patent, and no patent has yet been granted, the truth is IC doesn't NEED the license. There is a patent application pending and that means there's nothing to license, but there is also a risk to taking this route. You can read some expert analysis here: http://www.tomshardware.com/news/massdrop-input-club-halo-switches,35468.html