Using fonts in my applications

Question

I need to use Helvetica font in my Android application. I have following questions regarding the same:
1. Is helvetica.ttf free for use in commercial projects?
2. What are the legal issues that one must consider when using fonts in their applications?

Thanks.

Answer 1

1. Probably not.

2. You need to have the rights to distribute the font file. Consider using the MGOpen fonts, or the DejaVu fonts, or the Liberation fonts, or other fonts that are clearly designated as being freely redistributable.