People who make the closed-source downloader&installer bundles (GPL software + sponsor software(toolbar, browser modifier, advertising display SW, etc...)) say that they are allowed to do it.
Their argument is based on this FAQ:
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/old-license ... tInstaller
I would like to bundle GPLed software with some sort of installation software. Does that installer need to have a GPL-compatible license?
No. The installer and the files it installs are separate works. As a result, the terms of the GPL do not apply to the installation software.
Do you agree with the interpretation based on the FAQ?
The original license (not just FAQ) allows mere aggregation of another work not based on the Program with the Program but mere aggregation is limited to "
putting them side by side on the same CD-ROM or hard disk" example.
The license (not FAQ) explains: "
But when you distribute the same sections as part of a whole which is a work based on the Program, the distribution of the whole must be on the terms of this License, whose permissions for other licensees extend to the entire whole, and thus to each and every part regardless of who wrote it."
I think they overlooked the Trademark issue (VideoLAN, VLC, VLC media player and x264 are trademarks owned by VideoLAN and they shouldn't be used by closed-source).