Adobe's decision to eliminate perpetual licensing for its Elements software has stirred controversy among consumers

Adobe ends its long-standing perpetual licensing model

News By Efosa Udinmwen published 9 November 2024

• Adobe is ending perpetual licensing for Elements
• The software will now use a subscription-based pricing model
• New tools and features have been added to remove some of the sting

Adobe has officially ended its perpetual licensing model for the Elements software lineup, meaning users of the 2025 edition will only be able to use it for a maximum of three years before being blocked.

While the change aligns with Adobe's long-term strategy of transitioning to subscription-based models, it has stirred up a mix of reactions from consumers who appreciated the simpler, one-time purchase option.

The removal of perpetual licensing isn't entirely new for Adobe. In fact, it follows a broader shift the company first made in 2013 when it ended perpetual licenses for its professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro. Elements users, however, have been able to enjoy the freedom of owning their software outright—until now.

No more perpetual licenses

The 2025 release of Photoshop Elements and Premiere Elements marks the first time this segment of Adobe users will face restrictions after three years of use.

Adobe says the change is an evolution toward a more connected experience, with the 2025 Elements lineup integrating access to companion web and mobile apps.

These services, which likely complement the core software, are aimed at expanding the range of creative options available to users, albeit at the cost of ongoing support after the three-year window closes.

Despite the shift in licensing, Adobe is packing Photoshop Elements 2025 with several new features designed to appeal to users who want powerful photo editing tools without the complexity of full Creative Cloud software. It comes with an AI-powered Remove tool, which allows users to erase unwanted objects in the background of photos.

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