JAM Software, the German company behind the disk space analyzer TreeSize, has sparked user dissatisfaction by changing its support policy for perpetual licenses. Since 2025, the company has been transitioning most TreeSize editions to subscription models, and now sells perpetual licenses only for personal use. These include 12 months of updates and support. However, once the maintenance period expires, users discover that extending support now requires a subscription, even though they already own the right to use the software.
TreeSize shifts to subscription: no more indefinite support
The change has particularly affected owners of perpetual licenses purchased before 2025, who have been denied technical support as well as access to installers and license keys after the maintenance period ends. Hendrik Christ, product manager at TreeSize, told Ars Technica that the company has no plans to discontinue perpetual licenses for TreeSize Personal, but the support renewal policy has been updated due to "current economic conditions". This move reflects a broader industry trend where software vendors push for recurring subscription revenue.
Sponsored Protocol
User backlash and industry implications
Many users have expressed frustration on forums, arguing that the decision lacks transparency and penalizes those who invested in a perpetual license expecting long-term support. Some note that the cumulative cost of a multi-year subscription can exceed that of a perpetual license, making it less cost-effective. TreeSize's move is part of a wider market transformation, with giants like Microsoft and Adobe having already abandoned perpetual licenses. For those seeking alternatives, open-source tools like WinDirStat or SpaceSniffer exist, but TreeSize remains popular for its intuitive interface and advanced features.
Sponsored Protocol
JAM Software's decision has also been influenced by rising development and support costs, as highlighted by the surge in deepfake fraud that caused $3.7 billion in losses, with social media as the top vector, as reported in our recent article. Deepfake fraud losses reach $3.7 billion with social media as the top vector. This scenario pushes many companies to reassess their business models to ensure economic sustainability.
For those holding a TreeSize perpetual license, the choice is now between subscribing for continued support and updates, or using the software without assistance. JAM Software also offers paid support extensions, but without a subscription, users cannot download new versions or access online services. The final decision rests with the user, weighing the importance of technical support against the subscription cost.
Sponsored Protocol
In an era where software is increasingly a service, TreeSize's step is not isolated. The perpetual license is quickly becoming a relic of the past, replaced by subscriptions promising continuous updates and dedicated support. Market evolution requires users to adapt to new dynamics, but also to voice their concerns for more transparent and favorable conditions.
