http://www.mp3-box.org/download-mp3-codec-for-ubuntu/
Is/are the MP3/other codecs for Linux illegal?
Specifically in the United States. Am I taking any risk by downloading the codec? For example, in Ubuntu Feisty Fawn, I try to play an MP3 song in Totem, it pops up saying the codec isn’t installed, and it asks me if I want to search for it. I check the check box and it says it has to be legal in your country and some other things to download. Is it OK in the U.S., specifically downloading/installing the codec?
And, on a side note, where is it illegal to download/install it?
The company that controls that patent for MP3, Thomson, states
“Arland says Thomson not only allows but encourages the use of MP3 technology in free client-side players. He also says Thomson has no plans to start charging royalties to producers of freely-distributed MP3 player software, and that “it would not be in our best interests to do so.” But, he says several times — using slightly different words each time — the second you sell software or hardware that contains Thomson’s patented technology, the company wants money, and this is not negotiable, GPL or no GPL.”
Ubuntu – Install MP3 Player