June 4th, 2024
TechSmith is transitioning to an annual subscription-only model, beginning with Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025. Active maintenance agreements currently provide access to new major releases, which will remain true during this transition.
Customers who have active maintenance agreements for Snagit or Camtasia will receive a Business License key for subscription access to the product when the 2025 versions are released. This subscription access will remain valid as long as their maintenance agreements are active. Maintenance provides an annual savings of over 60% compared to the cost of a new subscription. This is our way of thanking existing customers for the investments they have already made through past perpetual purchases.
Customers who do not have active maintenance but have previously purchased perpetual versions of Snagit and Camtasia qualify for a discounted upgrade license on or before January 1, 2025. A perpetual upgrade purchase includes a year of active maintenance, providing access to future subscription offerings while the agreement remains active. Customers can purchase a Snagit or Camtasia upgrade directly via our store or contact sales for assistance with volume purchases.
Customers will always have access to previously purchased perpetual versions, with continued support per our support policy.
Frequently asked questions
Transition overview
What is the difference between a perpetual license and a subscription license?
A perpetual license allows you to use the software version for as long as the device's operating system remains compatible with the software after a one-time purchase but only includes updates and support for a limited time.
A subscription license, on the other hand, provides access to the software for a specific period. With a subscription license, you pay a recurring fee to continue using the software and receive all new versions, updates, and support. If you stop paying the subscription fee, you lose access to the software.
What does subscription-only mean for TechSmith software?
Subscription-only means that our software will be sold through an annual subscription model. This model ensures that you can access the software, including all future updates and versions, based on an annual fee. By renewing your subscription each year, you can stay up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. If you decide to cancel your subscription, you retain access to the software until your current subscription period ends.
Please note that customers with active maintenance during this transition can access subscription offerings for no additional cost beyond their annual maintenance renewal. If the maintenance agreement is canceled, customers will lose access to subscription offerings when it expires.
Does this transition mean Camtasia and Snagit will be Cloud software?
No, this transition does not mean Camtasia and Snagit will become cloud-based software. Both products will remain desktop clients and can be downloaded the same as before. We do not require sign-in (login) to access our software. The subscription model simply provides for a more continuous delivery of updates and new features. However, this transition does enable us to offer optional AI and cloud-based workflows, which complement your use of Camtasia and Snagit.
Please note that while internet access is not required continuously, it is necessary for initial activation and then once every 90 days to maintain product functionality. Alternative activation options are available for organizations with specific offline needs–please contact our support team for details.
Why is TechSmith transitioning to a subscription pricing model?
A perpetual model encourages companies to hold features and improvements until the next major release, and that is no longer how we wish to serve our customers.
Our new subscription-only model is not just a change, it's a commitment to bring customers continuous innovation with the best technology and post-sale care available. This ensures customers get the best value for their investment, with access to features and improvements as they're ready.
TechSmith has thrived for over 30 years by putting our customers first. This strategic step forward is a reflection of that commitment and directly responds to customer demand for subscription offerings.
Will I still have access to previously purchased versions of Snagit and Camtasia?
Yes, you will always have access to any versions of Snagit and Camtasia that you purchased under a perpetual license, even if you install and use 2025 subscription versions.
Will perpetual versions of Snagit and Camtasia still be supported?
Snagit 2024 and Camtasia 2024 versions will be supported through October 2, 2026, for customers without maintenance and through October 2, 2027, for customers with maintenance. This support article provides a complete timeline of support for prior versions.
What if I own a site license?
If you own a site license, you are already on a subscription model for that product and will continue to have access to the latest features as long as your agreement is active. You will benefit from easier deployment requirements, but otherwise, you are unaffected.
Maintenance
What is a maintenance agreement?
Snagit and Camtasia maintenance are annual subscriptions providing access to future updates and versions, live support channels, volume discounts, and exclusive certification courses. The purchase of a perpetual license for Snagit or Camtasia currently includes one year of maintenance.
Maintenance is a less expensive alternative to purchasing annual upgrades. As part of this transition, we will no longer sell upgrades after January 1, 2025; instead, customers with active maintenance will gain access to the latest version through subscription access to Snagit and Camtasia as long as their maintenance remains active. Customers will lose access to subscription offerings if that agreement expires.
How do I know if my maintenance agreement is active?
Visit manage.techsmith.com, sign in to your TechSmith account, and click on the Keys tab. The status of your maintenance agreement will be listed below the software key for each product.
What if I canceled my maintenance agreement?
If you canceled your auto-renewing maintenance agreement but it hasn't expired yet, you can still reinstate it. Visit manage.techsmith.com, sign into your TechSmith account, click the Online store orders tab, and then click the "Un-cancel" button.
If you do not uncancel your maintenance agreement before it expires, you will lose access to subscription versions of the product, updates, volume discounts, and premium support. You will also lose the chance to receive ongoing discounted subscription pricing offered to active maintenance customers.
What if my maintenance agreement has expired?
If your maintenance agreement has expired, you can purchase a discounted Snagit 2024 and Camtasia 2024 perpetual upgrade license before January 2025. This license includes one year of active maintenance.
Once you're on maintenance you will enjoy access to the latest versions of that product, including future subscription-only offerings at significantly discounted pricing, as long as your agreement remains active.
I have multiple maintenance agreements for one product. Can I consolidate them?
Yes, now is a good time to consolidate and we can help. Please contact sales to get started.
I have a Camtasia maintenance agreement, what Camtasia plan will I be on after the transition?
Customers with active Camtasia maintenance will receive a Business License key when Camtasia 2025 is released, offering access to the same features and functionality as the Camtasia Essentials plan.
Please contact us if you are interested in a Camtasia Create or Pro plan. We want to ensure that any transition to these plans honors your previous investments in Camtasia.
What if I do not want a subscription?
Only customers with active maintenance will receive a Business License key that provides subscription access to the 2025 version of the product when it is released and future versions. You can cancel maintenance at any time. However, once it expires, you will lose access to subscription versions of the product, updates, volume discounts, legacy subscription pricing discounts, and premium support.
If you do not have active maintenance, you will not receive a Business License key when the 2025 version of the product is released and you will pay the full subscription rate to access future subscription versions of the product.
You will always have access to previously purchased perpetual versions, with continued support per our support policy.
Can I cancel or modify my subscription after the transition?
Yes, as with a typical subscription you can cancel at any time.
Canceling your subscription means you will lose access to subscription versions once it expires. You will also lose access to maintenance benefits on previously purchased perpetual versions, priority support, volume discounts, and certification. If you were provided your subscription at maintenance pricing rates and you cancel then you lose your eligibility for discounted legacy pricing. If you decide later that you want access then you will pay the full list subscription rate to access future subscription versions of the product.
You will always have access to previously purchased perpetual versions, with continued support per our support policy.
What additional benefits or services will be included with a subscription?
A subscription ensures that you receive the latest features, updates, and enhancements as soon as they are released, as well as an additional suite of benefits, whether you are an active maintenance customer or purchasing a new subscription. These additional benefits include:
- Access to in-depth training materials and certification programs to help you get the most out of our products
- Premium customer support to assist with any issues or questions
- Improved discounts on bundled offerings that include other products and services TechSmith provides
The transition to a subscription-only model allows TechSmith to continuously release new technology, including optional AI and web-based video solutions more quickly without waiting for major releases. A subscription ensures you always have access to our latest technology.
When will Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025 subscription-only versions be released?
Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025 versions are planned for release in early 2025.
Does this change impact the timing of Snagit and Camtasia's major releases?
The shift to an annual subscription-only model will allow new features and functionalities to be released as soon as they're ready without waiting for major release cycles. Instead of annual major releases, you can expect a more continuous set of updates and improvements after the release of Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025.
What if I did not purchase Snagit or Camtasia from TechSmith?
If you purchased Snagit or Camtasia through a reseller, you will still receive a Business License key when the 2025 version of the product is released if you have active maintenance. You can renew your subscription and add seats with your preferred reseller.
You do not have active maintenance if you purchased Snagit 2024 or Camtasia 2024 through the Apple App Store or Amazon. However, if you would like access to future versions, you can contact us to purchase a maintenance agreement. You will need to provide proof of purchase.
If you purchased prior year versions from the Apple App Store or Amazon you are eligible to purchase a discounted upgrade license for Snagit 2024 or Camtasia 2024, which includes one year of active maintenance.
Purchasing and costs
Will there be additional costs associated with this transition?
For customers with active maintenance agreements, there is no additional cost for future subscription versions. As long as your maintenance agreement remains active you will have access to all future versions including subscription-only offerings when they are released.
Will I pay the maintenance rate for my subscription every year?
While maintenance rates are subject to regular increases over time, we guarantee that your renewal cost will remain significantly lower than the full subscription price for at least the next five years (2030). This is our way of thanking existing customers for the investments they have already made in our products as we make this transition.
Can I pay monthly?
No, we only offer an annual payment plan.
What If I do not have an active maintenance agreement?
If you have previously purchased a perpetual Snagit or Camtasia license, you qualify for a discounted upgrade license for Snagit 2024 or Camtasia 2024 before January 1, 2025. A perpetual upgrade purchase gives you perpetual rights to version 2024 - our last perpetual release - plus also includes one year of active maintenance, which provides access to the latest versions of that product at a discounted rate, as long as that agreement remains active.
You also have the option to purchase an Individual License subscription for Snagit or Camtasia at any time. Please note that the Individual License is non-transferable, meaning you cannot purchase it on someone else's behalf. A perpetual upgrade license does come with a transferable key.
Will I be able to purchase an upgrade for Snagit 2025 or Camtasia 2025?
Customers will not be able to purchase a perpetual upgrade license to access 2025 versions. Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025 will only be offered as a subscription.
If you are using an older version of our software, the most cost-effective way to gain access to those future versions is to purchase a Snagit 2024 or Camtasia 2024 perpetual upgrade license before January 1, 2025, which includes one year of active maintenance.
Customers who have active maintenance agreements for Snagit or Camtasia will receive a Business License key for subscription access to the product when the 2025 versions are released. This subscription access at a discounted rate will remain valid as long as their maintenance agreements are active.
Do discounts for education and government customers still apply after the transition?
TechSmith will continue to honor active maintenance agreements through this transition and provide access to all new versions, including future subscription offerings of the applicable product. Any education or government discounts to maintenance agreements will still apply after this transition.
What if I need to extend the number of seats within my maintenance agreement after the transition?
Seat extensions will remain discounted for existing multi-seat customers with maintenance, ensuring you can expand your team's access without significantly increasing costs. Please contact our sales team if you have questions about adding additional seats.
What if I need to add more seats after the transition, but my organization is still on a perpetual version?
During this transition period, customers with active maintenance agreements can continue to add more seats for Snagit 2024 and Camtasia 2024 until October 2026. Additional seats added for Snagit 2024 and Camtasia 2024 will also have access to Snagit 2025 and Camtasia 2025 when those versions are released.
Perpetual versions will continue to be supported per our support policy.
As an admin, will I be able to track usage and reassign seats for multi-user keys after the transition?
We will continue to operate via multi-seat keys to limit the impact of this change on existing customers.
Centralized seat tracking and management through an administrative panel are not yet available but are being developed. Still, you can reassign a license to another user within your organization by deactivating the product on the previous user's machine and activating the product on the new user's machine.
You may also want to consider site licensing, which eliminates the need to track seat allocation.
What if my company does not allow the purchase of subscription software?
Customers who make direct purchases from TechSmith's sales team or through a reseller can leverage a PO-based purchasing process to prevent autorenewals on a credit card. This addresses a common concern for organizations regarding subscription software, but we encourage you to contact customer support if you need further assistance.
If you are on an older version, you can still purchase a discounted Snagit 2024 and Camtasia 2024 perpetual upgrade license before January 2025. Volume active maintenance customers can still purchase additional perpetual seats after that date and choose to install only the perpetual software even though they will also have rights to access the subscription versions.
I pay for Snagit or Camtasia via a purchase order, what changes should I expect?
The purchasing process will remain the same. You will receive an advance notification about the upcoming renewal. Once we receive your purchase order for the renewal, we will send you a receipt and an agreement renewal confirmation. After processing the renewal order, we will invoice you.
Please note that if TechSmith does not receive the renewal order within 60 days, you will lose access to subscription versions of the product unless you have made other arrangements with your account manager.
I previously purchased Snagit or Camtasia for someone else. Will they be able to access the 2025 subscription versions?
Yes. If the maintenance agreement is active, you will receive a Business License key that provides subscription access to the product when the 2025 version is released. This key is transferrable and will grant the user access to the latest versions and updates as long as the maintenance agreement remains active.
Installation, activation, and updates
Will I still need a key to use Snagit or Camtasia?
Customers with active maintenance will receive a new Business License key when the 2025 version is released. This key will provide access to the 2025 version and future subscription releases, ensuring a seamless continuation of your access to the product. You will no longer need a new key for each release after this transition.
What is the difference between a Business License and an Individual Subscription?
The Business License is slightly different than an Individual Subscription, but both will provide subscription access to the product.
With a Business License:
- A software key is required to access the product
- Can be transferred to another user
- Offline activation is available for Snagit and Camtasia
- Users are not required to sign in, but it is recommended
- Additional benefits include phone support and specialized deployment resources
With an Individual License:
- Users are required to sign in for access to the product
- Cannot be transferred to another user
- Offline activation is not available
- Additional benefits include email and chat support
As part of this transition, customers with active maintenance will receive a Business License key, not an Individual License.
Will I need to create an account or sign in to access future subscription versions?
If you already have a TechSmith account, you can continue to manage your keys through that account after this transition.
A Business License does not require signing into a TechSmith account to access the product. However, if you wish to use additional products, such as Camtasia Audiate, Screencast, or Assets with Snagit and Camtasia, you will need to sign in to your TechSmith account.
With an Individual License, users are required to sign into their TechSmith account to access the product. As part of this transition, customers with active maintenance will receive a Business License key for maximum flexibility, not an Individual License.
How will installation work for organizations?
The subscription offering for organizations will remain key-based, meaning you will still have complete control over the rollout of new features and updates at your organization.
See Enterprise Deployment Resources for information about deployment options.
Will I still need to install a new version every year?
TechSmith's software update feature enables many users to stay up to date automatically. If an Enterprise or User disables the software update feature, then manual installation of new versions is periodically required. However, the frequency that a new install will be required will be reduced due to the transition to a subscription model.
Will new features and updates automatically be pushed to my machine?
A subscription ensures you can access new features and updates as soon as they are released, but you still have complete control over when to implement updates. Recent versions of Camtasia provide the option for automatic updates, however, that feature can be disabled by an individual user or via the deployment tool before it is rolled out at an organization.
Will I be notified when there are updates to the product?
Yes, when a new version is ready to install, a pop-up window will appear within the product to help guide you through the process. We also provide notifications within the product and email updates highlighting new features so you can stay informed about the latest updates.
Will I still be able to use Snagit and Camtasia on multiple machines?
Subscription versions of Snagit and Camtasia can be installed on an unlimited number of machines, however, you can only sign in on or activate one device at a time.
What will happen to my existing content after this transition? Will it be online?
TechSmith's transition to a subscription model will not change where your content is stored or how you access it.
What happens to my Snagit captures if my maintenance expires and I lose access to a subscription version?
Snagit captures are stored in your designated Snagit Library location. Even if your subscription ends, captures are never deleted unless you choose to delete them. After your subscription ends, you will have a limited period of time to export captures using the Snagit Editor, should you wish to do so. Learn more about how Snagit Library files work in this support article.
What happens to my Camtasia projects and recordings if my maintenance expires and I lose access to a subscription version?
You always keep any Camtasia videos you have produced/exported. Since Camtasia is installed on your own desktop computer, all the files in your media bin and library continue to live on your computer after your subscription ends. Camtasia projects (.tscproj files) can still be opened and edited without an active Camtasia license, but exports will have a watermark.
What if I work for an organization that doesn't allow internet access on machines?
Continuous internet access is not required to use Snagit and Camtasia, but it will be necessary for initial activation and then once every 90 days to maintain product functionality.
However, if you wish to use additional products, such as Camtasia Audiate, Screencast, or Assets with Snagit and Camtasia, you will need to sign in to your TechSmith account and have internet access.
Alternative activation options may be available for users with specific offline needs–please contact our support team for more details.
How will data security and privacy be handled under the new subscription model?
TechSmith is committed to following global data privacy standards and practices. You can learn more about what personal information TechSmith collects on our sites and/or services and how it's used via our privacy policy.
Still can't find what you need? Contact us and we'll help you out.
