The expiration of MP3 patents has made the format effectively free to use, allowing for broader adoption and usage without legal concerns. Comments highlight the historical context of the patent expiry, user experiences with MP3, and its continued relevance. The discussion notes that while the format may be considered legacy, its compatibility across devices and ease of use means it remains popular for users who rip CDs and store audio files. Comparatively, while alternatives like Ogg Vorbis exist, the ubiquity of MP3 makes it a de-facto standard. Additionally, concerns about the potential impact on companies like Fraunhofer, which used to rely on licensing fees, are brought up but seem to suggest that the financial implications were not as severe as anticipated.