We Used to Own Our Software

There was something deeply satisfying about buying software in a box.

You opened the package, inserted the disc, entered a serial number, and installed something that felt like a possession.

Technically, you were often purchasing a license rather than owning the software itself.

But the transaction still felt complete.

The program lived on your computer. The box lived on your shelf. You didn’t necessarily need to maintain an ongoing payment relationship just to keep using that particular version.

Now, much of our digital existence arrives through recurring charges.

Access has become easier.

Ownership has become more complicated.