> > The usual and suggested way is to get it included in the mainline kernel. This reduces the pain a lot.

> How does that help exactly?

Here's what GP asked about:

> Programming like that must be an absolute nightmare. Not only would have to understand the convoluted API scheme, you'd have to research the origins to see if you can legally use it.

So, I guess the answer is "because if you take my (and every other kernel developer's) advice, you don't have to program like that." Was the not clear? Sorry.

I guess the follow up question is, what the hell does the Tom Tom case have to do with GP's question?