From: TwoTailedFox
Owning?
Yes, Microsoft still owns that code, like I own the code I contributed to
ReactOS. They (and me too :)) have given an irrevokable, perpetual license
to use it, but they still own it.
If this code is open-source/public domain, what is the
problem?
There is no legal problem, but it can get confusing. "You guys didn't use
any of the leaked source code, so there is no Microsoft code in your OS?"
"Well, actually, there are a few bits of Microsoft code". I agree with
Steven, it's much better to not have to explain this.
GvG