What makes software special that we can only rent it?

[RicknSharon]

I am disappointed in the direction software is headed, renting it rather than buying a copy that you can keep and use for years.  I guess the current generation doesn't care if it costs them $xx per month, we had to manage our money better years ago.

Maybe all other trades should start renting their services.  Electricians could install a device than shuts off the power every month unless a fee is paid.  Plumbers too, hey, who needs a working toilet anyway?  Cars, there you go, after xx days or xx miles a message pops up "let me reach into your wallet again".

Seriously, why must Adobe only rent software?  I don't need the latest version sent to me every time an update comes along.  If it filled my needs when I bought it, why won't it do the same years down the road?

I'll take a hard pass on any software that is only rented.  I can only hope other services don't follow suit, it'll be a rude awaking for all.

[Abambo]

Cars, there you go, after xx days or xx miles a message pops up "let me reach into your wallet again".

By @RicknSharon

It's called leasing...

Software renting is not a new thing and is very popular with professionals. During my career, I rented a lot of software. I did also acquire software and then bought a servicing contract that included updates and support.

When Adobe started the subscription model, I figured out that the subscription made us save money, the way we operated.

And if you look at this correctly, you will find that professional software is provided on a subscription base and consumer software is provided for a one-time fee.

And a last argument: The subscription model is a highly lucrative model for Adobe, not because you pay more, but because more people pay.

[J E L]

@RicknSharon It might an urban legand but apparently the World Economic Forum said that by 2030, "you will own nothing and you will be happy." Only 9 years to go!

[Nancy OShea]

Maybe all other trades should start renting their services. 

===========

@RicknSharon,

It's already here.  It's called a home service warranty and it has been around for decades.  For a modest monthly fee and deductible, our home is covered whenever we need a plumber, electrician, or appliance technician (frig, stove, dishwasher, microwave, washer, dryer, freezer, HVAC...).  It more than pays for itself the very first time a repairperson comes out. 

If it filled my needs when I bought it, why won't it do the same years down the road?

===========

You assume everyone lives in a vacuum but we don't.  Technology is constantly changing.  Our clients needs are constantly changing.  Our computer operating systems are constantly updated.

The machine you use today is nothing like the one you brought home 3 years ago.  After awhile, old apps stop working with modern OSs.  Having access to newer apps is essential for keeping pace with modern OSs and equipment.

For hobbyists & amateurs, there are free and low-cost consumer level apps you can use instead of pro-level Adobe tools.  That's your choice.  But for working professionals like us, subscription based software is much better than spending several thousand on a suite of software that has a 2-3 year shelf life.

One man's trash is another man's treasure.

[Rob_Cullen]

"..the direction software is headed,..."

It is not just "headed" it has 'GONE' !

For some detailed reading on this topic, here are some links-

Subscription Reborn in the cloud | McKinsey

Adobe Subscription versus Perpetual biz comparison

Subscription influence of Corporate Law SOX

Adobe: The Subscription Economy

Activation of software by the Subscription model also helps to 'tidy up' the use or distribution of pirated software that constitutes a violation of software copyright law.