An ongoing 3D-printer AGPL violation
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
SFC details Bambu Lab's ongoing AGPLv3 violations in 3D-printer slicer software.
At FOSSY 2026, SFC members presented Bambu Lab's AGPLv3 violation regarding Bambu Studio, a PrusaSlicer fork. Bambu Lab distributes proprietary .so files via a network plugin that is dynamically loaded, circumventing the AGPL. A Polish user who reverse-engineered the code received a DMCA takedown. SFC's baltobu project mirrors the workaround. The company also violates GPLv2 by not providing source for firmware components. SFC raised over $250,000 to hire a litigation attorney.
What commenters are saying
Commenters split on enforcement feasibility. Some note blocking imports or suing for statutory damages ($120k per copy) as potential remedies. Others argue $250k is insufficient against Bambu Lab's resources. Several defend Bambu's hardware quality, saying it outcompetes alternatives. There is skepticism that U.S. courts will effectively handle a Chinese company, though some suggest the Court of International Trade could block imports. Practical concerns mix with support for enforcing the AGPL.