WordPress Feud with WP Engine Escalates
The ongoing dispute between WordPress and WP Engine has taken a new turn. Initially sparked by WordPress's demand for trademark licensing fees, the conflict escalated with WP Engine's legal challenge, alleging extortion. Read about the court's intervention in the dispute.
WordPress co-creator Matt Mullenweg then banned WP Engine from WordPress.org resources. He defended this move, citing WP Engine's "attacks" and suggesting they offer their own modified version of WordPress.
Internal dissent followed, leading Mullenweg to offer a generous buyout package to dissenting employees. A significant number accepted, highlighting the internal divisions caused by the conflict.
Controversial Login Requirement
A new checkbox appeared on the WordPress login page, requiring users to declare they are not affiliated with WP Engine. This move locked out some prominent WordPress contributors and drew criticism. The court has since ordered the removal of this checkbox.
This action has been perceived as a childish response, impacting WordPress users unnecessarily.
Open Source Implications
While some argue WP Engine could contribute more to the WordPress community, WordPress's open-source nature allows for commercial use. The handling of this dispute raises questions about appropriate conduct within the open-source ecosystem.