I had some questions on font licensing for use on embedded devices. Our company makes its own embedded device and we write applications that run on the device. We have our own Windows-based font rasterizing engine that can take any Windows TrueType font (TTF) on a PC and convert it to a file containing a proprietary bitmap representation of the font(s) in the font sizes selected, for use on the embedded device. This file (and not the TTF file itself) is then downloaded to the device and used by the device application to render text on the device screen in the appropriate font and size.
My questions are:
(1) if we were to use one of the standard fonts that come with Microsoft Windows with the above scheme, is it necessary to license the font being used - say Courier - since the TTF file itself is not directly used on/by the embedded device?
(2) Do the companies that purchase our device(s) with the application need to purchase the font themselves?
Again, the font (file) itself would still reside on our development machines; only a proprietary bitmap representation of it is contained in the embedded device sold to our customers. Just need some clarification here…
I will attempt an answer, but remember I don’t design, license or sell fonts. (Remember it’s your fault, you asked for “any help”… )
If you attempt to make money off someone’s efforts / assets / fonts, you should pay the piper. (Since I don’t deal in fonts, I feel justified in stealing them!) But the way you described your needs you have a business responsibility to make contact with the license holder and confirm their demands.
Such large vendors as Microsoft (especially) are quick to point out the error of your ways if you try to broaden their market penetration while accruing a few bucks for yourself.
It is your responsibility to have valid rights to anything you sell. You might have to recall your product if it’s loaded with “stolen property.” (Man, that sounds tough and expensive).
Some fonts say they are free. Some request a postcard or email saying how you are going to use their fonts. Most say “let’s talk about it.”
In all cases I would suggest talking to the source. If they can’t be found, at least you have a paper trail of efforts.
You should take the moral high road because it’s a good place to be. You can’t see a hefty fine from there.
Additionally, there are so many “free” fonts you should be able to find a good one for a reasonable price. Don’t forget you have FCP so you could design a proprietary font of your own! Create an asset – design a Font!! Save those licensing fees…