Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Article suggestions

2026-04-28T15:25:37Z

Wildwood2017: /* List of companies doing the right thing */ Added RME Audio.

This page is dedicated towards providing a communal list for users to submit potential articles to feature on the wiki, and to give editors inspiration on what pages they might want to add to the wiki. If you create an article based on an entry from this list, or see that someone else has done so, please make sure to delete the row from this page in order to prevent confusion.

Sources should be inserted within the 'refs' section of the table. If using the visual editor, take advantage of '<nowiki/>'''insert reference'''<nowiki/>' via {{Key press|Ctrl|Shift|K}} so that the sources are quick to add to future articles. If you are using the source editor, feel free to copy and paste the formatting from other correctly formatted references on the page. The more sources you include with an article idea, the more likely it is that others will pick the article idea up and run with it, so please attempt to include a good variety of descriptive sources!

Please take note of the wiki's [[Consumer Rights Wiki:Inclusion guidelines|Inclusion criteria]] when submitting article suggestions. If you see article suggestions here which do not fit the Wiki, feel free to remove them, leaving your reasoning in an edit note.

If you are an editor looking for further inspiration to write an article, you can also check out the [[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory|Louis Rossmann video directory]] and [[Other Channels - Video Directory|other channels video directory]] for a good collections of potential articles.

==Example==
Below is an example of what an entry should appear as:
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|[[Nintendo]]
|In 2025, the company Nintendo stripped Switch 2 consoles that used the MIG switch cartridge of all online functionality
|<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Scattered Brain |date=Jun 16, 2025 |title=Soo... Nintendo banned my Switch 2 (Don't try the MIG Switch!) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo&t=656s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=Jun 18, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=Jun 17, 2025 |title=Switch 2 users report online console bans after running personal game “backups” |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251222013641/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |archive-date=22 Dec 2025|access-date=Jun 19, 2025 |work=Ars Technica}}</ref>
|}

==List of incidents not yet covered==
[[Category:Sources]]
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|194 Online Marketing Services (incl. [[Google]], [[Microsoft]], [[Meta]])
|Survey shows that more than half of websites set marketing cookies despite users opting out via Do Not Track header, Browser add-ons or by declining cookie banners. Google calles it a "misunderstanding of how their products work", Meta comments that according to the law an opt-out only prohibits selling of the data, not collecting it.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.404media.co/google-microsoft-meta-all-tracking-you-even-when-you-opt-out-according-to-an-independent-audit/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://globalprivacyaudit.org/2026/california}}</ref>
|-
|[[8Player]]
|In early March, 2026, the Apple TV application called 8Player began displaying a notice informing users who had already paid for the app, that the app would not continue to function unless they agreed to an ongoing subscription.
The text of the notice says the following:
----Thank you for being a valued 8player user.

To keep improving the app and delivering new features, 8player is moving to a subscription model.

You can continue using the full version at no cost until April 15, 2026.

After that, activate the subscription in the app to keep full access. Your existing features will remain available, and no action is needed today.

Thank you for supporting 8player over the years.

[[:File:8player-subscription-model-notice.png]]
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|[[ABC Financial Services]]
|Manages memberships and recurring service subscriptions for other companies. Prevents customers from being able to cancel a service by locking them into a never-ending cycle of auto renewals, and not allowing the customer to opt out of auto renewal.
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|[[Acer]]
|Removed Predator/Nitro Sense Applications for laptops from their support sites somewhere in early March 2026 (Looking at wayback machine snapshots). The application is required by the laptops to be able to toggle "Turbo" mode, which applies overclocks and boosts cooling. Additionally, recent Windows update(s) (KB5083769/KB5082417) have broken the application, making users unable to use it even if you were able to install it.
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|Affinity / [[Canva]] page created needs editors to help
|Canva purchases [[Serif]]; the owner of perpetual license design software Affinity Publisher, Designer, and Photo on March 26th 2024. Provides a pledge to assure users that Canva will not "ruin" the suite. In October 2025, Affinity users are locked out of the community forum for a new "Creative Freedom" announcement on October 30th 2025. Complete radio silence for a whole month while they tease long term users on Twitter and Discord. Finally on October 30th 2025, the new Affinity software is announced as "free". Instead, all creative professionals that used the original software are forced to create a new Canva account to access the new Affinity and thus agree to Canva's ToS<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-10-30 |title=Canva Terms of Use |url=https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128105545/https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=Canva Legal Trust Center}}</ref>. Affinity redirects the pledge page to an announcement for the new software, effectively burying the original pledge<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2024-03-27 |title=The Affinity and Canva Pledge |url=https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002083749/https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge/ |archive-date=2025-10-02 |website=web.archive.org}}</ref>. Questions about Canva now being able to monetize the work of professionals to train their own AI models sold to Canva users are left unanswered. Free, but at what cost?
EDIT: Initial article has been written but needs more work, citation, and verification. [[Canva Affinity Studio adds arbitration clause|See this article here]].
|<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" />
|-
|[[Alibaba]]
|{{Wplink|Alibaba Group|Wikipedia entry}}
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|[[Apotheka]]
|Personal ID codes, purchase information and contact details of almost half of Estonian citizens and residents have been compromised in a mass data breach of the IT system operated by Allium UPI, a firm dealing with pharmacy and hospital products.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-04 |title=Cybercriminals steal data of around 700,000 Apotheka pharmacy customers |url=https://news.err.ee/1609302096/cybercriminals-steal-data-of-around-700-000-apotheka-pharmacy-customers |url-status=live |website=[[ERR]]}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]]
|$17 000 Apple Watch 18 karat gold edition out of support only 8 years after its introduction (not end of sale!). This means no software support, and, crucially, no repair or replacement parts. If the battery dies, the watch is but a paperweight.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple will no longer fix the $17,000 gold Apple Watch |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222211749/https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|website=The Verge}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]], [[Beats]]
|No support for Powerbeats (4th generation) despite the headphones being under 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale. The product is not listed as discontinued or vintage, and by Apple's own guidelines, should be eligible for replacement parts and repair. OEM replacement eartips cannot be purchased for any Beats earphones.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260207094149/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |archive-date=7 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Beats Repair and Service |url=https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104000857/https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |archive-date=4 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple store search for eartips |url=https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251028001314/https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |archive-date=28 Oct 2025|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]] iWork/Creator Studio
|The update that makes the iWork apps part of the new Apple Creator Studio subscription now adds tracking that is enabled by default and implemented as opt-out. The information about it is displayed in a first launch screen without any immediate way opt out, which qualifies as a dark pattern. Instead, the user has to go through a slightly convoluted path via the iPhone/iPad system settings app, and under the submenu "Apps" find each of the iWork apps and disable analytics there individually for each app. On Desktop, it is under a dedicated menu item under the "Pages"/"Numbers"/"Keynote" menu.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=New versions of Keynote, Numbers, and Pages collect telemetry by default on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032029/https://old.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]] / [[Visa]]
|Apple & Visa have known about a vulnerability in their payment processing systems regarding transit systems since 2021 hand have done nothing to prevent scams from exploiting the vulnerability.
Apple blames Visa for the vulnerability, and Visa simply says if you see it happen on your account then you can dispute the charge, and they'll give you your money back... but this requires you to actually notice that you've been scammed in this way, which could be pretty easy to miss unless you are checking your bank statements regularly.
|<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPJ6NJkmDAo&list=WL&index=35</ref>
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|[[archive.today]] / archive.ph (Web Archival Service)
|The website used [[JavaScript]] embedded into the website code to conduct a DDOS attack from users' devices against a blogger who has voiced criticism of the service in the past. This may make also cause legal issues for users.
NOTE: A similar technique has previously been used by Chinese search giant [[Baidu]], so we might want to create a category or tag for this type of thing

ADDENDUM: This page was reported to have been changing the information displayed in some archived screenshots, such as the author who published particular articles.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kirchner |first=Malte |last2=Kunz |first2=Dr. Christopher |date=10 Feb 2026 |title=Archive.today: Operator uses users for DDoS attack |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260212060655/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |archive-date=12 Feb 2026 |website=heise}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |title=Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links - LMG Clips |url=https://youtu.be/rrnFUvFGf5A?si=32JRogu2ID9xykHd |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=LMG Clips on YouTube - Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links}}</ref>
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|[[ASUS]] (ROG)
|Releases bios updates via windows executable, meaning that you can't update your bios to the latest version to amend a security vulnerability or fix an issue unless you're running microsoft windows. The windows executable simply extracts a binary file, that you can drop on a thumb drive. This could be easily done via direct download to support other operating systems.
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|[[AutoAuth]]
|'''AutoAuth''' represents a significant shift toward "repair-by-subscription," where owning a vehicle no longer guarantees the right to maintain it. By placing a digital firewall between the owner and the car’s computer, AutoAuth forces independent shops and DIY enthusiasts to pay recurring access fees and register their personal data with a third-party gatekeeper just to perform basic maintenance, such as electronic parking brake retractions or oil life resets.
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|[[Bayer]]
|[[wikipedia:Bayer|Wikipedia]]. See [[Monsanto]]
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|[[Benjamin]]
|Offerwall phone app that pays users money for various tasks- such as watching ads, or downloading and using software. After years of user satisfaction, in late 2025, the company first put a 2 month moratorium on users' ability to withdraw their earned money, then rolled out a massive wave of enshittification features, the most egregious of which, is a "withdrawl queue", where withdrawing your earnings is placed into a queue with no visible progress. No days, no queue tracker, many members have been waiting over 3 months for their withdrawls to be processed, on a feature listed as "instant withdrawl". Various policies also implemented that would completely void a user's earned money, mainly inactivity but also many baseless random user bans (many of which were reversed). There are hundreds of frustrated user testimonials on reddit (https://www.reddit.com/r/benjaminone/).
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|Berlin
|City of Berlin installs security cameras that alerts authorities about people who are "loitering without reason".
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=10 Mar 2026 |title=Surveillance in Berlin: When AI reports "loitering without reason" |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Surveillance-in-Berlin-When-AI-reports-loitering-without-reason-11206420.html |website=heise}}</ref>
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|[[Better Business Bureau]] (BBB)
|Users who have been wronged and even scammed by companies have recently started reporting that the BBB has ignored, rejected, misclassified, closed prematurely or taken down their valid, BBB compliant, complaints for no apparent reason<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-29 |title=Better Business Bureau Reviews |url=https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bbb.org |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-29 |website=Trustpilot}}</ref>. Attempts to remedy the situation often result in unanswered/ignored emails and ghosting. Companies with large percentages of unresolved complaints often get an A+ rating (which basically contradicts the BBB's own guidelines). This is especially true when it comes to paying BBB member companies, but is often also the case with non member companies. A Redditors explained that a company can easily buy an A+ BBB rating by paying the BBB<ref>{{Cite web |title=Waste Managment sent an ad disguised as a bill |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ColoradoSprings/comments/1l6hr18/comment/mwpys3o/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-30 |website=Reddit}}</ref> or by paying a lawyer to threaten to sue the BBB for defamation.
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|[[Best Buy]]
|In late 2025, BestBuy added [https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. "Comparable Value"] as means of comparing values of products that is of equivalent value to other products sold by manufacturers, 1st party, or 3rd party vendors. Changes to their pricing model has made it to where it is more difficult to determine overall value of a product compared to MSRP.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Support |first=Best Buy |date=2025-01-24 |title=Pricing: Promotions |url=https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Best Buy}}</ref>
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|[[Blackview]]
|[https://www.blackview.hk Blackview], a technology brand that originally specialized in rugged outdoor phones more info at [https://www.blackview.hk/about-blackview "About us]"
Certain Phones have been hit with advertisements from the App called "System message" which is baked in the OS, "Allow Notification dots" can be disabled however "All System message notifications" and neither "Push" notifications cannot be disabled by the user. The App cannot be disabled nor uninstalled, it can be forced stopped and set the battery restriction option to "restricted". I [[User:SolidSnakePliskin|SolidSnakePliskin]] creating this entry have seen this happen firsthand on 1st April 2026 on my Blackview Model Number: N6000 (EEA) Purchased on [https://web.archive.org/web/20260401174012/https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0CCXBNTWR Amazon Italy]. OS Details: Android Version 13 (Security Update November 5, 2025) & DokeOS 3.1. Further More other Reddit users complaining [https://old.reddit.com/r/blackview/comments/1mo441x/get_rid_of_system_notification_that_contains_ads/ here].
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|[[Bluesky]]
|Introduced ID check for Direct Messaging to comply with laws in certain states and abroad, despite both the company and community being against it.
Its legal docs ([https://bsky.social/about/support/tos ToS], [https://bsky.social/about/support/privacy-policy PP], [https://bsky.social/about/support/community-guidelines CG]) need [[JavaScript|JS]] to be viewed by humans, however this seems more of an oversight than deliberate
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|[[Carvana]]
|Saying cars that have been in accidents have not; Lies about inspection and does not replace brake pads even when worn down. Non-refundable $1,500 shipping fee. See [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9yhOeTUEo4 Louis Rossmann's video]
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|[[Chuwi]]
|Misleading consumers by falsifying the specsheet of one of their latest laptops, and repeatedly threatened one of the online publications that wrote an article of their alleged misdeeds.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leitner |first=Simon |date=2026-03-12 |title=CPU fraud, next round: Chuwi CoreBook Plus with supposed AMD Ryzen 5 7430U also affected |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/CPU-fraud-next-round-Chuwi-CoreBook-Plus-with-supposed-AMD-Ryzen-5-7430U-also-affected.1248660.0.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/N7UmU |archive-date=2026-03-12 |access-date=2026-03-12 |website=Notebookcheck}}</ref>
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|[[Cloudary Holdings Limited / Webnovel]]
|Terms of service with binding Arbitration.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Webnovel ToS |url=https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101204816/https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |archive-date=1 Jan 2026}}</ref>
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|[[Devolo]]
|Devolo switches off servers and removes their app from stores for their "Home Control" system, thus severely reducing the functionality of their devices (apparently Z-Wave-based).
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=IT-News für Profis |url=https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251210052941/https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |archive-date=10 Dec 2025|website=Golem |language=de}}</ref>
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|[[DeviantArt]]
|DeviantArt launched in 2000 and quickly became a household name among digital artists. [https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community But in 2017 WiX] bought the website and in 2022 had made all art on it's site liable to be training data by default. They then back peddled and then set all art to noai by default. Now they are moving basic functions to be behind their paywall. [https://www.deviantart.com/razorstargazer/journal/Deviantart-is-the-worst-website-ever-created-1309667089 Ones that were free.]
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The AI Controversy on DeviantArt: How a Creative Paradise Became a Battleground |url=https://expertbeacon.com/the-ai-controversy-on-deviantart-how-a-creative-paradise-became-a-battleground/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Wix Acquires DeviantArt, Pairing Wix Capabilities with Global Creative Community |url=https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community |url-status=live}}</ref>
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|DotPe cyber-sec negligence
|In 2024, an Indian company that provides digital services to food-chains got trivially hacked/cracked, allowing anyone to get customer data and company revenue-stats across many countries
|<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20240923081639/https://peabee.substack.com/p/whats-inside-the-qr-code-menu-at</ref>
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|[[Digital Europe]] (lobby organization consisting of [[Microsoft]], [[Google]], [[Amazon]], and [[Meta]])
|Group lobbied to keep datacenter emissions secret from consumers via confidentiality clause that was adopted almost verbatim by the Eurpean Comission, intentionally keeping consumers in the dark about the environmental impact of the products they use.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/apr/17/microsoft-us-tech-firms-lobbied-eu-secrecy-rules-datacentre-emissions}}</ref>
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|[[E621]]
|Terms of service that require agreement to forced arbitration to use the website.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-02 |title=E621 |url=https://e621.net/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128164339/https://e621.net/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=E621}}</ref>
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|[[EcoVac]]
|Vacuum cleaner robots produced by company 'EcoVac' were found vulnerable to hacking over bluetooth allowing for remote control and access to camera feed. Security researcher Dennis Giese notified the company in December of 2023. In August of 2024, the issue was described by the company as "extremely rare in typical user environments and require specialized hacking tools and physical access to the device."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fell |first=Julian |date=2024-10-04 |title=We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera - ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251128025250/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |archive-date=28 Nov 2025|access-date=2025-09-10 |website=ABC News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-09 |title=Ecovacs home robots can be hacked to spy on their owners, researchers say {{!}} TechCrunch |url=https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212044/https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |archive-date=2026-02-22 |access-date=10 Aug 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-15 |title=Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai on X: "Finally, Ecovacs responds to the researchers' findings, saying it won't fix the bugs. |url=https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241108194816/https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |archive-date=8 Nov 2024}}</ref>
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|[[Elegoo Centauri Carbon|Elegoo]]
|The Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3d printer has been proven to use open source Klipper software which requires them to publish their changes to the code.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-28 |title=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance |url=https://freethecode.lol/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206142736/https://freethecode.lol/ |archive-date=6 Dec 2025|access-date=2025-08-28 |website=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance}}</ref>
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|[[Ericcson]]
|Data Breach March 2026
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|[[FBI]]
|FBI buys location data of US citizens
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=FBI is buying location data to track US citizens, director confirms |url=https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/18/fbi-is-buying-location-data-to-track-us-citizens-kash-patel-wyden/ |url-status=live |website=[[TechCrunch]]}}</ref>
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|[[Foxconn]]
|Foxconn is an electronics manufacturer with various human rights violations on it's record. They've also convinced the government to use eminent domain to take people's property to build factories, that never end up using the factories.
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|[[Foxit Reader]]
|Updater uses dark pattern to trick unsuspecting users into installing a trial version of their paid product. The checkbox is enabled again by default with each update in the hope that the user misses it by accident at some point.
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|[[Gaggia]]
|Between 2015 to 2019, the redesigned Gaggia Classic removed the traditional three-way solenoid valve. The valve was restored in the 2019 Gaggia Classic Pro after criticism and backlash from the espresso enthusiast community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waddell |first=Kelsey |date=2023-03-23 |title=Gaggia Classic vs Pro: A Closer Look at the Differences |url=https://www.roastycoffee.com/gaggia-classic-vs-pro/ |website=Roasty Coffee}}</ref>
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|[[General Motors|GM]]
|GM originally released the EV1 in 1996 on a lease program, and then instead of selling the much loved used/leased vehicles to consumers, they decided to crush the grand majority of them. Very few surviving examples can be found today, with most in private collections or at universities.
Because it was seen as a failure to major auto manufacturers, It would take over a decade before another EV was produced in the United States.
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|[[Google Chromecast]]
|Chromecast has transitioned from a standalone product to one that [[Forced_app_download|requires the Google Home app]] for setup and control. This change prevents customers who either don't own a smartphone or prefer not to use the app from accessing their Chromecast devices. As a result, certain televisions—such as the Caixon EC43S1UA, which relied on built-in Chromecast functionality—can no longer be used as intended. This effectively removes a key feature from a product that was already purchased, diminishing its value or rendering it unusable altogether.
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|Google TLS Changes
|Google's new requirements to certificate authorities require separate authority/signing chains to be used to issue Server Authentication and Client Authentication certificates. Therefore, starting 11 February 2026, Let's Encrypt will no longer include the Client Authentication EKU on default certificates
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|[[Google]] ([[Android]])
|Google apparently plans to reduce the interval of publishing source code of security patches they consider non-critical. This is another blow to the custom ROM community.
Right now we don't have these incidents organised chronologically, maybe we should have a table with a timeline of measures Google takes to enshittify and close down Android (more APIs moved to Play Services, Developer verification, withholding AOSP device trees for Pixel devices to mess with [[GrapheneOS]], now delayed source code disclosure). What's worst, they always cite safety as a reason.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exclusive: Google wants to make Android phones safer by switching to ‘risk-based’ security updates |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260107025310/https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-date=7 Jan 2026 |website=Android Authority}}</ref>
|-
|[[Google Maps]]
|Google restricts data visible in Google Maps for users who are not signed in with an account (see [[Forced account]]). Reviews and photos are no longer visible without login. This also forces users to agree to Google's TOS and logs them into all other Google services, such as YouTube or Google Search so that now all their data in those other services is associated with their accounts. This also raises concerns that other services such as YouTube might follow.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Feb 2026 |title=Google Maps now forces you to sign-in |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032117/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Feb 2026 |title=Can't view images without logging in? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032213/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref>
|-
|[[Google]], [[Mozilla]], [[Apple]], [[Microsoft]], but largely Google-led
|Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are removing XSLT 1.0 support, which could break critical parts of government's websites worldwide<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dimant |first=Dimitrii "Mamut" |date=2025-08-10 |title=XSLT removal will break multiple government and regulatory sites across the world #11582 |url=https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211221059/https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=Github (specifically the Web Hypertext Application Technology Working Group's HTML standards repo, controlled by Mozilla, Google, Microsoft and Apple)}}</ref>. There are valid security reasons for them to want to stop supporting this 1999-era standard, however they have had 26+ years to update to a newer standard (such as the 2017-era 3.1 standard, which is backwards compatible and would allow these sites to continue to work<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-03-21 |title="XML Path Language (XPath) 3.1: W3C Recommendation 21 March 2017" |url=https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260116015839/https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |archive-date=16 Jan 2026|website=W3C}}</ref>). The single unpaid developer maintaining these libraries has more or less retired after getting flooded with impossible to satisfy security requests from these companies<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wellnhoffer |first=Nick |date=2025-05-08 |title=Triaging security issues reported by third parties |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231248/https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>. There is an existing project called XRUST to implement the 3.1 standard<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-09 |title=XRust: XPath, XQuery, and XSLT for Rust |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204085435/https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |archive-date=4 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>, which is 2/3rds of the way through supporting all the features of 1.0 - the XSLT part fully supports all the 1.0 features at this point. XSLT is part of the W3C Consortium's open web standards for formatting and presenting XML, and is also how RSS works, so RSS feeds would stop working as well, disrupting the livelihoods of podcasters<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rijo |first=Luis |date=2025-08-20 |title=Google targets RSS feeds in new XSLT removal proposal |url=https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212228/https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=PPC-Land}}</ref>. This has led to questions of who owns the web - the public (including the government) who paid for and laid down the highways / web infrastructure - or a handful of large corporations? <ref>{{Cite web |last=Branscombe |first=Mary |date=2025-09-01 |title=XSLT Debate Leads to Bigger Questions of Web Governance |url=https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231310/https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=The New Stack}}</ref>
|
|-
|[[Google Photos]]
|Google Makes it more difficult to manage photos within your google drive account through third party applications, including open source software running on linux.
This makes it incredibly frustrating to clear space in google drive if you've exceeded the space limits.
|<ref>https://github.com/gilesknap/gphotos-sync-discussion/discussions/1</ref>
|-
|[[GoPro]] Hero 12
|GoPro Hero 12 requires the GoPro app to be installed before you can use the camera. Many currently used devices are not compatible with the app, therefore making use of the camera difficult to impossible for new owners or upon camera factory reset. There's also the question of what data the app collects and whether it requires login and or camera activation.
|
|-
|[[Honda]]
|moved the garage door opener from a button on the mirror to a [[Pay-walling|paywall]] [[subscription service]]
|<ref>https://reddit.com/r/mildlyinfuriating/comments/1sd54jo/replaced_my_honda_with_a_new_one_after_an/</ref>
|-
|[[Hyundai]] (BlueLink)
|Hyundai ads in-car advertisements for subscription services, while you're driving, after telling you not to look at the screen while driving.
The advertisement is a full page of text, that you can't either enable or disable while you're driving. Your only options are to (A) select later, to delay the ad for another driving session, or (2) Pull over and park your car so you can (C) enable the feature at $10/mo or (iii) dig through settings menus to figure out how to disable the message permanently (which will probably only be actually permanent until the battery in the car dies).
BlueLink appears to be marketing lingo for their cell-phone-linked remote start/stop, lock/unlock, and climate control features. The only feature that should actually need a cellular subscription appears to be stolen vehicle recovery.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Green |first=Hank |date=2026-16-04 |title=Should I Sue Hyundai? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQ1RUyOF2Rk |url-status=live |website=Youtube}}</ref> <ref>https://connected-mobility.hyundai.com/what-we-do/connected-car-services/bluelink</ref>
|-
|Indonesia
|Banning Social Media for children under 16
|
|-
|[[Internet radios]]
|I'd like a page where I can share information about internet radios "openness." Few allow you to enter a radio station's URL (which I would consider the least intrusive option). Most depend on third-party websites or apps; [https://www.sangean.com/uk/blog/149 some of which have already bricked devices].
|
|-
|[[iRacing]]
|iRacing is a racing game that's subscription-based, requiring payment just to play the actual game in either online or offline mode.
|
|-
|[[itch.io]], [[Night School Studios]], [[Netflix]]
|In September 2024, users who purchased the game Oxenfree on itch.io were warned that the game was going to be pulled from the platform on October 1st. Consumers would not be able to download the installers after this date, so they would lose access unless they had them backed up. Users speculated that Netflix, the parent company of the development studio, had ordered the move; however, no response from Netflix or the developers was ever published. This is particularly notable because it is against itch.io's terms of service: "Users shall retain a license to this content even after the content is removed from the Service."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=itch corp |date=15 Apr 2023 |title=itch.io Terms of Service |url=https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907004719/https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |archive-date=7 Sep 2024 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=itch.io}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=ShawnS |date=31 Jan 2025 |title=OXENFREE |url=https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250321070400/https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |archive-date=21 Mar 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=Delisted Games}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Colp |first=Tyler |date=9 Sep 2024 |title=Another reminder that your digital library isn't forever: Oxenfree will be completely removed from Itch.io next month |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250523111125/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |archive-date=23 May 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=PC Gamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[The Japan Times|Japan Times, The]]
|The Japan Times uses the DMCA to take down an open source study resource for the Genki and Quartet workbooks.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clydesdale |first=Seth |date=2025-09-11 |title=Important Information Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251116072121/https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |archive-date=16 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Update Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources DMCA Situation |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251115073152/https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |archive-date=15 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-03 |title=All Exercises for Genki/Quartet Study Resources Have Been Removed |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113045244/https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-date=13 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[Kangaroo]]
|A home security camera company that locks local hardware features behind software subscriptions and paywalls that ultimately could work without external service. Access to local storage playback via the app is locked behind a paywall; see reviews. "cooldown" periods provide a risk to security as motion detection does not activate until after a fixed period of time on no-subscription plans with clips that only capture 12 seconds of recording, this was not always the case.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Delaney |first=John |date=2021-11-09 |title=Kangaroo Indoor + Outdoor Cam Review |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/kangaroo-indoor-plus-outdoor-cam |url-status=live |archive-date=2024-08-11 |access-date=2026-04-01 |website=PCMag}}</ref><ref>https://www.bestbuy.com/product/kangaroo-indoor-outdoor-wired-1080p-security-camera-white/J3QLYYW64G/sku/6506997/reviews?pageSize=20</ref>
|-
|[[Klarna]]
|A German consumer rights association reports that payment provider Klarna requests access to users' bank accounts for payment purposes, but instead of just initiating transactions as the user expects, it also scans the complete list of transactions on the user's bank account for advertising purposes and also forwards that data to third parties. Klarna also faces criticism for encouraging debt by offering "buy now, pay later" schemes.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.spiegel.de/netzwelt/apps/klarna-verbraucherschuetzer-kritisieren-konto-schnueffelei-bei-zahlungsdienstleister-a-de915cd3-997e-4b39-ad67-bb5d22969635}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.chip.de/news/Warnung-vor-KlarnaVebraucherschuetzer-sind-besorgt_185654845.html}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.computerbild.de/artikel/cb-News-Sicherheit-Verbraucherzentrale-warnt-Klarna-analysiert-Kontodaten-39229147.html}}</ref>
|-
|[[Kohls]]
|There is no option to delete your account on their website
|
|-
|[[KOSA]]
|KOSA claims to make kids safer, but it’s really a dangerous censorship bill that would give the U.S. government unprecedented control over the internet. This would put youth in danger by preventing them from accessing potentially life-saving resources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fight for the Future |first= |date=2026-01-24 |title=Reject online censorship. Tell lawmakers to oppose KOSA! |url=https://www.stopkosa.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2026-01-24 |website=Stop KOSA}}</ref><ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20250228145348/https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/Katy-ISD-blocks-LGBTQ-resources-suicide-16647274.php</ref>
|-
|[[LBRY]] Foundation, [[Odysee]]
|Community first decentralization & Odysee's plan to enable censorship by switching away from the opensource LBRY network.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The LBRY Foundation |url=https://lbry.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211161516/https://lbry.org/ |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-08-08 |quote=The LBRY community invites everyone to join us in building a more free and open way to share content and information online.}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Watson |first=RT |date=6 Jun 2024 |title=Decentralized YouTube alternative Odysee acquired by Forward Research despite content concerns |url=https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127094918/https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Aug 2025 |work=The Block}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Li |first=Jun |last2=Grintsvayg |first2=Alex |last3=Kauffman |first3=Jeremy |last4=Fleming |first4=Charles |date=2020 |title=LBRY: A Blockchain-Based Decentralized Digital Content Marketplace |url=https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007 |url-status=live |journal=2020 IEEE International Conference on Decentralized Applications and Infrastructures (DAPPS) |location=Oxford, UK |publisher=IEEE |doi=10.1109/DAPPS49028.2020.00005 |isbn=978-1-7281-6978-1 |url-access=registration |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250825221749/https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007/ |archive-date=25 Aug 2025 |via=IEEE Xplore}}</ref>
|-
|[[LexisNexis]]
|Data breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[LG]]
|LG discontinued its LG Bluetooth Remote app (including plugins such as "btc4") making it non-public on the Play Store and making Bluetooth controllable devices (like for example the CM2630B) half as useful, without even publishing neither the protocol used to control such devices nor the source code of the app.
|
|-
|[[Lowe's]]
|Lowe's uses flock cameras and other AI powered cameras to collect data and build a profile on "prospective, current, or former Lowe's customers". Their cameras point away from their stores.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koebler |first=Jason |date=6 Aug 2025 |title=Home Depot and Lowe's Share Data From Hundreds of AI Cameras With Cops |url=https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216173226/https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=404 Media}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Aug 2025 |title=Lowe’s U.S. Privacy Statement |url=https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228013530/https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |archive-date=28 Dec 2025|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=Lowe's}}</ref>
|-
|[[Marquis]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Meta]] and [[YouTube]]
|In a recent trial Meta and Google were found liable for making there social media platforms addictive and harmful
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Jury finds Meta and Google negligent in social media harms trial |url=https://www.npr.org/2026/03/25/nx-s1-5746125/meta-youtube-social-media-trial-verdict |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Campaigners welcome Meta and YouTube's defeat in landmark social media addiction trial |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c747x7gz249o |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Meta and YouTube Found Negligent in Landmark Social Media Addiction Case |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/25/technology/social-media-trial-verdict.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[McDonald's]]/Taylor
|McDonald's US mandates which ice cream machine has to be used by franchise licensees. The company that makes these machines uses deliberately obfuscated error codes to force restaurant owners to use their expensive tech service to fix them and reset the machines. The company makes more money from these "repairs" support than with actual sales. Not strictly end consumer, but the pattern warrants documenting imo.
A similar problem exists with Doremi (Dolby) cinema projectors where their DRM leads to a ridiculous number of actions breaking the so-called "marriage" (projector-media block unity), requiring a costly technician to reset it. This one needs sources researched, though, as I don't have one on hand.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Why McDonald's Ice Cream Machines Are Always Broken and How To Fix Them |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Microsoft]]
|Microsoft's Android keyboard app SwiftKey set to make it impossible to backup user data without a Microsoft Account, backups must be stored in Microsoft cloud
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=18 Mar 2026 |title=SwiftKey will soon require a Microsoft account to save your typing info. |url=https://www.theverge.com/tech/896859/swiftkey-will-soon-require-a-microsoft-account-to-save-your-typing-info}}</ref>
|-
|[[Microsoft]]
|Locked the developers of Windscribe, Veracrypt, and, Wireguard out of their accounts
|
|-
|[[Microsoft]] Rewards
|Used to be a good program, but over the last few years they've implemented a number of anti-user policies including extensive cool-downs for earning points on Bing, and making it more difficult to redeem points. There are multiple reports on r/microsoftrewards of people getting banned or restricted when they have over $100 worth of points that they are trying to redeem. They've also removed points opportunities that used to be interesting and engaging.
|
|-
|[[Minut]]
|Minute sells sensors and alarms. They released an alarm (Point) on kickstarter that long after release got a firmware update adding forced subscription if more than one person wanted to use the alarm.
|<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/minut/pointthe-friendly-home-alarm</ref>
<ref>https://www.minut.com/</ref>
|-
|Multiple
|Several legal cases involving forced arbitration in some manner; many of these relate to other anticonsumer practices, such as when Wells Fargo illegally opened up ~3.5M fake checking and credit accounts in customers' names. Highly advised to deeply scrub for supplementary sources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=Apr 16, 2019 |title=Fact Sheet: Cases Tossed Out of Court Because of Forced Arbitration Causes and Class Action Bans |url=https://www.centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans#_ftn1 |access-date=Feb 12, 2026 |website=Center for Justice & Democracy at New York Law School |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251013145327/https://centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[MuseGroup]] (MuseSounds)
|Releasing more and more subscription sound packs while previously released one-time purchase sound packs are full of bugs/issues and have gone without updates for sometimes over a year. They have also increased the price of one-time purchase packs by about 500% while still providing no additional or improved functionality.
They also added unsolicited popups advertising their paid sound packs at startup of the open source MuseScore application, as well as buttons and commands for their cloud service to the home screen, which cannot be disabled. They previously ran into controversy when changing the privacy policy of Audacity and tried to add tracking. The closed-source MuseHub application (which is required to download the free sound packs) connects to tracking services with neither a real opt-in nor an opt-out option. Newer versions of MuseHub now seem to [[Forced account|require an account]] to download free sound packs and sound effects, which previously was not the case. Muse Hub starts at every system launch by default and stays active in the background despite this not being required for its functionality. They also added proprietary parts to MuseScore (like the MuseSample), which is kept closed source. They also bought StaffPad and seem to have quietly ceased its development without publishing any statements.
|
|-
|[[NationStates]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Navdy]], [[Harman International]]
|Device discontinued and no updates, device can be used offline for 1 year until it stops working.
https://www.reddit.com/r/navdy/
|
|-
|[[Navia]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Netgear]] (internet networking equipment)
|Almost every Netgear internet router requires the creation of a new account to function as a router (see [[Forced account]]), where the TOS includes an agreement to binding arbitration. Most if not all devices are locked into proprietary firmware with no option to change. Some automatic updates have reportedly cause loss of performance with option to revert to a previous version, "bricking" the device in some cases.
Engages in anti-consumer practices, requiring a subscription for basic WiFi-router features such as parental controls. According to a blogpost by a senior employee, grew from "45% in 2016 to over 60% in 2019" of the US consumer router market. In 2025, Netgear is "being sued by TP-Link for a 'Smear Campaign' to Advance US Router Ban [of it's competitor TP-Link].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=NETGEAR Terms and Conditions |url=https://www.netgear.com/about/terms-and-conditions/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=What subscription plans are available for NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls? |url=https://kb.netgear.com/000062104/What-subscription-plans-are-available-for-NETGEAR-Smart-Parental-Controls |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Abhay Bhorkar |url=https://www.netgear.com/hub/author/abhorkar/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=TP-Link Accuses Netgear of 'Smear Campaign' to Advance US Router Ban |url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/tp-link-accuses-netgear-of-smear-campaign-to-advance-us-router-ban?test_uuid=04IpBmWGZleS0I0J3epvMrC&test_variant=B |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[https://www.nexigroup.com/ Nexi S.p.A.]
|Nexi is a payment services provider based in Italy, which has been used by the [https://fsfe.org/ Free Software Foundation Europe] (FSFE) for ~ 15 years. They have allegedly been asking FSFE for personal information of FSFE executives and supporters and have recently cancelled their contract with FSFE.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-16 |title=450 FSFE supporters affected: Payment provider Nexi cancelled us |url=https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260317162959/https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |archive-date=2026-03-17 |access-date=2026-03-17 |website=FSFE - Free Software Foundation Europe}}</ref>
|-
|[[Odido]] Netherlands B.V.
|Odido is an internet service provider in the Netherlands with a 10-15% market share [[https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 79]]. On the 3rd of March 2026 a user reported that his Odido Zyxel EX5601-T1 router was (illegally) sending analytics data to a Turkish AI-company [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ 80]]. The user reported on the 8th of March 2026 that the router silently stopped sending this data with no formal mention/patch from Odido. The user reported on the poor security of the router and that the analytics data contained the unencrypted names of local networks, the names of devices connected to these networks, and MAC-addresses. The poor security of Odido's routers follows a massive data leak of 6.2 million customers' full legal names, phone numbers, emails, bank account numbers, passport numbers and more [[https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html 81]].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=ACM Telecommonitor derde kwartaal 2025 |url=https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Odido-router verzamelt analytics van je huishouden |url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Odido waarschuwt voor datalek: miljoenen klantgegevens gestolen bij cyberaanval |url=https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[OICA]] (European automotive lobby organisation)
|The OICA recently pushed for the right to emit sounds from quiet electric cars to make them as loud as conventional cars with combustion engine and against stricter noise regulation in cities. The fake engine noises in question are specifically not for safety purposes, but for emotional effect for the driver. However, instead of playing the noises only inside for just the driver to hear, the noise is to be played on speakers on the exterior, thus affecting the general public. Noise pollution has long been known to have adverse health effects. ''[NOTE: Similar to environmental aspects, greenwashing etc., we will have to find a good angle for how this fits the wiki. I would say it does match the general theme of manufacturers deliberately making their products worse for minor financial gain and lobbies pushing against things that are in public interest.]''
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=2026-01-07 |title=Sound Dictatorship vs. Quiet: The Battle for E-Car Roar |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260108165124/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |archive-date=8 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-01-08 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
|-
|[[Oracle]]
|Similarly to [[Tencent]], this corp is behind many other companies, so it has a lot of power over users. Also, their CEO is very petty about letting go the [[JavaScript]] trademark<ref>https://deno.com/blog/javascript-tm-gofundme</ref>
|
|-
|Pearl Abyss
|Crimson Desert engaged in hardware gatekeeping by purposely locking out support for Intel GPUs. Their response when people asked what was going on was, “Get a refund.” They failed to mention in their hardware requirements that Intel GPUs were not supported. Intel also reached out to Pearl Abyss over the course of Crimson Desert’s development to offer support but was ignored. Pearl Abyss has now backpedaled after public backlash and says they will offer Intel GPU support.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Intel suggests it was snubbed by Crimson Desert dev after reaching out "many times" about Arc GPUs – company says it provided "early hardware, drivers, and engineering resources" to studio |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/gpus/intel-suggests-it-was-snubbed-by-crimson-desert-dev-after-reaching-out-many-times-about-arc-gpus-company-says-it-provided-early-hardware-drivers-and-engineering-resources-to-studio |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Crimson Desert blocks Intel ARC GPUs from playing, studio asks owners to refund |url=https://www.neowin.net/news/crimson-desert-blocks-intel-arc-gpus-from-playing-studio-asks-owners-to-refund/#:~:text=Users%20on%20Reddit%20who%20discovered,resolution%20for%20Intel%20ARC%20owners. |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Crimson Desert doesn't support Intel Arc GPUs on PC, it may never, and the devs say get a refund if you have one — they didn't warn players until launch |url=https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/crimson-desert-doesnt-support-intel-arc-gpus-it-may-never-and-the-devs-say-get-a-refund-if-you-have-one |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Crimson Desert Doesn't Work on Intel GPUs, But Pearl Abyss Is Working On It |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/crimson-desert-doesnt-work-on-intel-gpus-but-pearl-abyss-is-working-on-it |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Persona]] (Age verification service)
|Used by Discord to do age verification using facial 3d scans, which are transmitted to Persona servers. It has been revealed that the company has ties to Palantir and Peter Thiel.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Lincoln |date=13 Feb 2026 |title=Oh, good: Discord's age verification rollout has ties to Palantir co-founder and panopticon architect Peter Thiel |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260221224755/https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-date=21 Feb 2026 |website=PCGamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[Proton]]
|Proton helped FBI unmask anonymous "Stop Cop City" protestor
|<ref>https://www.404media.co/proton-mail-helped-fbi-unmask-anonymous-stop-cop-city-protestor/</ref>
|-
|[[Regus]]
|A flexible office / workplace provider for freelancers, contractors, small businesses, etc.
This is specifically for their Virtual Office service. I am sure they apply these same predatory and deceptive tactics with the rest of their services as well.
Locks you into a contract for virtual services that they may terminate at any time. You can too only if you follow very specific and exaggerated terms. They will bill you for the entire agreement even with it terminated. You lose access to the services immediately upon termination but are forced to pay for the rest of the agreement. They are predatory with agreements and will not allow you to break them and will charge you for the entire thing regardless of what happens.
Forced arbitration. Force you to waive any right to class action lawsuits.
Contract comes with terms hidden in their "house rules" document, automatically opting the user into services they did not knowingly agree to, by default. These services are NOT included in the original contract in any way except through the referencing to other documents like the "Terms of Service" and "House Rules", not disclosed ahead of time. They clearly show a lower price and do not clearly show any of the additional services you unknowingly opt into.
They lead you into a low price to get the agreement signed. Once signed, you cannot escape or get out with their terms. You find out later that they've made you agree to additional services by default. They require YOU to jump through hoops to opt out of those services, and they bury the information to do it.
They have predatory auto-renewals for the contracts that are typically months to years long, with many being sold into higher 1 year+ contracts for "savings" and "discounts". These auto-renewals cannot be canceled without 3 MONTHS notice! If it renews, you are locked into another term which you will be forced to pay in full even if you terminate.
This is all for VIRTUAL office services that cost nothing to provide or remove.
A lot of deceptive patterns including, but not limited to: Comparison prevention, hidden costs, hidden subscription, obstruction.
|[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/TermsPDF/VirtualOffice/Global20250301.pdf Terms of Service]
[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/PreviewHouseRule.aspx?guidId=840179ed-c894-4e91-8ccc-3b882bcf4b38 House Rules]
[https://www.myregus.com/help#:~:text=you%20can%20give%20notice%20to%20terminate%20your%20agreement%20at%20anytime%20in%20your%20online%20account%20%2D%20but%20you%20will%20be%20charged%20until%20the%20end%20of%20your%20agreement%20term. Help Page - terminate anytime but pay everything]
|-
|[https://www.skystone.games/ Skystone Games]
|Boundary, a multiplayer online-only first-person shooter, got shut down just a year after its release by Skystone games, and its publishing rights relinquished, citing "ongoing delays and a lack of updates from the developer". Studio Surgical Scalpels (the developer) stated that the publisher decissions were "extremely sudden and unreasonable", and attempted to "regain the rights to boundary". The game has been offline for more than a year at the time of writing, and no refunds or communications to the userbase has been made by Skystone Games.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-19 |title=Boundary - End of service notice |url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |url-status=live |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=Steam |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021143111/https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-30 |title=Boundary Shut Down: Who's to Blame? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Sony]], Sony Online Entertainment/[[Daybreak Game Company]]
|Selling off SOE to the investment firm Columbus Nova, all games published by SOE were delisted without prior notice to consumers or developers, and licenses were revoked as well.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=S |first=Shawn |date=Jun 10, 2016 |title=Akimi Village |url=https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127030103/https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|website=Delisted Games}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Weber |first=Rachel |date=Feb 2, 2015 |title=SOE acquired, becomes Daybreak Game Company |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |work=GamesIndustry.biz |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204235742/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |archive-date=4 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Spectora]]
|Spectora is a home inspection software used by many home inspectors, a very important portion of the home buying process. Spectora has announced they intend to insert ads April 7th. The ads look like the home inspector (a independent entity) is recommending outside services. Spectora has also purchased other home inspection platform HomeGauge on April 4th. With Fixle being in the purchese which is the ad network they now own. There are also allegations (have not been proven) of sale of the inspection data (something that remains confidential with client controlling confidentiality) to insurance companies, and Home Lenders. Causing increased rates on historical inspection data even when those things could be a condition to close on the home.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Forced Partnership |url=https://forum.nachi.org/t/forced-partnership/266387 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Fixle by Spectora: Post-Inspection Tools for Home Buyers |url=https://www.spectora.com/fixle/?utm_campaign=41151531-2026%20Fixle%20Launch%20Campaign&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=411347418&utm_content=411347418&utm_source=hs_automation |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Spectora acquires HomeGauge |url=https://coverager.com/spectora-acquires-homegauge/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Starbucks]]
|Data Breach affecting employees March 2026
|
|-
|[[Superbox]]
|Android TV box manufacturer Superbox remotely locks consumers' devices if they were sold below the manufacturer's minimum specified prices and asks consumers to contact the retailer when they complain.
They are not the first to do something like this. [[Deye]] locked down inverters in the US that they suspected might be gray imports.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=You'll Own Nothing and Be Happy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |website=YouTube |type=Video |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Symantec]]
|Product: Norton Internet Security.
This one might be tough to document, because it's been slowly going on for the past 15 years. Norton used to offer a great internet security package with a ton of good and useful services for a decent price. Unfortunately, slowly over the years, they've gone further and further down the rabbit hole of charging more money for fewer and fewer features, and then locking some of those features behind even more paywalls and micro-transactions.
|
|-
|[[Telus]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[TCL]]
|[[wikipedia:TCL_Technology|WP]]. Misleading advertising. Software and firmware full of bugs (such as screens "randomly" turning off)<ref>https://reddit.com/r/nxtpaper/comments/1nckzv5/comment/obv34b6/</ref>. Taking years to upgrade Android phones, and lying about the expected dates. Refusing to comply with Google policies and some gov regulations
|<ref>https://www.notebookcheck.net/TCL-can-t-advertise-TVs-as-QLED-since-they-lack-in-quantum-dots-and-color-accuracy.1243552.0.html</ref><ref>https://reddit.com/r/nxtpaper/comments/1nckzv5/tcl_update_policy/</ref><ref>https://reddit.com/r/Android/comments/vvnuq6/tcl_has_been_actively_ignoring_my_firmware/</ref>
|-
|[[TriZetto]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Universal Audio]]
|Product: UAD (Volt) Audio Interfaces
Universal Audio (UAD) [[Forced account|requires users to create an account and sign in]] to their software to use their audio interfaces–this is a necessary step and without it the interfaces are unusable.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Official UAD setup guide for "Volt" audio interfaces |url=https://help.uaudio.com/hc/en-us/articles/4409233546644-How-to-set-up-your-Volt-Interface}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Review of Volt 876 audio interface by Julian Krause |url=https://youtu.be/CCnttwq9jMw?si=DcwA97e3pSfp5rlr&t=803}}</ref>
|-
|[[UP3]] By [[Jawbone]]
|Approximately 2011, Pioneering startup company from San Francisco, had revolutionary fitness trackers. In 2017 with no notice to customers they stole personal data and shut down app which in turn, bricked devices. Highly likely went bankrupt and sold to sister company to manipulate customer services and rights. Now owned by Aliph brands.
|
|-
|[[Vive]]
|In 2022, Vive discontinued the original Vive Facial Tracker module a year after the original release, then released an updated model with proprietary firmware that blocked use on other 3rd party VR headset, while only allowing the new model to work with their new locked-down headset. The 2021 version of the face tracker's long term support was seemingly cut overnight without any software updates since 2021.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vive Team |date=2022-08-07 |title=VIVE Focus 3 gets Facial Tracker, and Eye Tracker |url=https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250619155201/https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |archive-date=2025-06-19 |access-date=2025-09-21 |website=Vive Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=StateKi |date=2023-10-10 |title=Post by StatekTi on X |url=https://x.com/StatekTi/status/1733954156379963393 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/DiYbF |archive-date=9 Jan 2026 |access-date=2025-11-21 |website=X (Formerly Twitter)}}</ref>
|-
|Wheatstone Corporation
|Wheatstone Corporation are a manufacturer of professional broadcast equipment, mainly audio consoles and interfaces that utilise their proprietary Wheatnet audio over IP protocol.
Wheatstone restricts access to firmware updates, software configuration tools and software. You must open a support ticked in order for them to send you a download link to these software tools, they make it very difficult to access software required to make their hardware audio interfaces work, even stating they want proof of purchase (not just a licence key) before they will even give you the download link. Managing licences is also non-existent and you will need to contact support, and as such a fee is imposed.
|
|-
|White House
|The White House made a news app, but this app tracks your location every 4.5 minutes through third-party OneSignal
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Deep Humor |date=2026-03-30 |title=Don't Download This App |url=https://youtu.be/d5OTwcRxaTw?si=REEdhGeYPelHGLEQ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-30 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Tixon |first=Bernadette B. |date=2026-03-29 |title=White House App Found Tracking Users' Exact Location Every 4.5 Minutes via Third-Party Server |url=https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/white-house-app-gps-tracking-controversy-1788974 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[International Business Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Milden |first=Dashia |date=2026-03-30 |title=I Downloaded (and Deleted) the White House App So You Don't Have To. It's a Hot Mess |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/i-downloaded-and-deleted-the-white-house-app-so-you-dont-have-to-its-a-hot-mess/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[CNET]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-30 |title=White House app sparks concern over location tracking and privacy issues |url=https://www.tradingview.com/news/cointelegraph:565f766ef094b:0-white-house-app-sparks-concern-over-location-tracking-and-privacy-issues/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[TradingView]]}}</ref>
|-
|[[WHMCS]]
|Discontinuation of support and updates for WHMCS legacy “Owned” licenses, forcing users who want ongoing updates or technical support to switch to subscription licensing and pay recurring fees rather than continue with the original owned model. This change affects all holders of legacy owned licenses and alters the long-term terms under which those licenses were originally sold
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=WHMCS Knowledgebase |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211021038/https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Important pricing changes to your WHMCS owned license Mailer |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215233549/https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Wireless Power Consortium]]
|After monopolizing wireless charging market Qi turned from an open standard into a proprietary.
Version 1.3 introduced "secure authentication between the transmitter and the receiver", i.e. in order to operate every charger must include an expensive proprietary chip licensed only to certified members. This results in increased development and manufacturing costs directly passed onto consumer. Version 2.2, unlike previous versions, "is available for WPC Members only".
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qi Certification Is Changing and We've Got You Covered |url=https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104012700/https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=NXP Semiconductors}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web |title=Download the Qi Specifications |url=https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104094044/https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=Wireless Power Consortium}}</ref>
|-
|[[Wizards of the Coast]]
|Wizards of the Coast (WotC) seems to be positioning itself to move away from publishing physical books that last forever in favor of pushing digital-only sales and micro-transactions of content and subscriptions. They attempted to amend the OGL (Open Game License) to include language that would require third party authors of D&D content to give up rights to their own content, so WotC can sell it to consumers without crediting the original authors.
Notably, as a direct response to these anti-consumer activities and policies, a select few of the third party publishers have instead decided to come out with their own systems that are not beholden to WotC's whims. A couple of examples include ''Draw Steel'' and ''Daggerheart''. An earlier conflict prompted Paizo to release their own version of the classic D20-based tabletop RPG, ''Pathfinder'', when WotC started releasing the fourth edition of it's rule-set.
|
|-
|[[Wolfgang Puck]]
|Some of the bread makers have anti repair screws in them to prevent people from repairing them themselves. Needs more citations.
|
|-
|[[World Orb]]
|World Network (Sam Altman/Open AI) scheme to collect biometric data on all people. Tied to cryptocurrency, AI schemes. Supposedly way for people to show they are human (run by the people who are trying to make a profit from AI).
|
|-
|[[Zhiyun]]
|Like competing products from [[DJI]], Zhiyun video gimbals require a Chinese smartphone app, internet access and an [[Forced account|account]] to activate on first use.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=ZHIYUN Tutorials |date=25 Jul 2023 |title=ZHIYUN CRANE 2S Activation Tutorial |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=YouTube}}</ref>
|}

==List of themes not yet covered==
Consumer Rights Wiki is not an encyclopedia.

*Before proposing or making a theme article, see if you can find an article that covers the topic on wikipedia, or some other reference. If you can, just use a reference to that.
*Check the list of theme articles [[:Category:common terms]], to be sure there isn't already an article on the topic, or one closely related. Sometimes a theme may be covered by generalizing an existing article.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Theme
!Summary of Theme
!Refs
|-
|Anti-rollback or ARB for device firmware
|most recent example being [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback]] but ain't exclusive to it. Also implemented by [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback#Comparison with other manufacturers|Samsung]], [https://mavicpilots.com/threads/not-be-able-to-degrade-firmfare-of-dji-mini2-from-01-06-0200.134806/#post-1518967 DJI] (link found from [[DJI]]) and likely many more.
|
|-
|Car manufacturers replacing physical controls by touch-screens
|This is increasingly common, and puts drivers at risk. Some corps pretend touchscreens are a "premium" or "modern" feature, but are typically cheaper for them
|
|-
|[[Content delivery network]] ([[CDN]])
|[[wikipedia:Content_delivery_network|WP]], see also [[Cloud (service)]]. While helpful, they can infer the browsing history of millions of users across sites. The bigger their monopoly, the more cross-site tracking power they have. Even GDPR has been against using CDNs in some situations. Examples of CDN: [[wikipedia:Amazon_CloudFront|CloudFront]] (see [[Amazon]] [[wikipedia:Amazon_Web_Services|AWS]]), [[Cloudflare]], [[Microsoft]] [[wikipedia:Microsoft_Azure|Azure]], [[wikipedia:Fastly|Fastly]], etc...
|
|}

==List of companies doing the right thing==
It would be helpful to include examples of companies doing the right thing, even if they aren't, strictly speaking, consumer products.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Good deed
!Refs
|-
|APSystems
|After requests from users, the company released a firmware update that adds a local API to their EZ-1M solar micro inverter, allowing it to remain fully usable if the company ends support for the device
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=APsystems EZHI Local API User Manual |url=https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251107061040/https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2025|website=global.apsystems.com}}</ref>
|-
|Concept2
|Readily provides parts and diagrams. Exists under a [https://www.concept2.com/about/perpetual-purpose-trust Perpetual Purpose Trust].
|
|-
|Core Devices (from creator of Pebble Smartwatches)
|Not strictly Core Devices, but when Pebble was sold to Fitbit, the servers remained online for some time, and the Pebble app was updated to allow the Rebble community project to take over some of the Pebble server-side functionality. All backers of the upcoming Pebble 2 series of watches were refunded in full, despite it being a crowd-funding campaign.
Following Google's acquisition of Fitbit and after many years, Google released much of the Pebble Smart Watch source code on github (excluding proprietary libraries). Core Devices and Rebble replaced the usage of the proprietary libraries with open source alternatives, and released new Android and iOS apps, not only supporting the new core devices, but bringing updated support to legacy Pebble devices.
|
|-
|Fairphone
|The new Fairphones (5th and 6th generation) are availible with stock android as well as e/os, which is a fork of lineage os and a european alternative cloud provider (murena) instead of google. This has many privacy features (app tracker blocker, tor network usage, and gps spoofing) availible in a few clicks. Also degoogle apps (microg, safetynet, ...) are preinstalled therefore it is w´possible to install everything also from playstore with an anonymous account. As e/os is a fork of lineage os and there is an official guide to flash the fairphone with e/os and is officially supported, flashing lineage os is very easy.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-24 |title=How to manually install Android on your Fairphone |url=https://support.fairphone.com/hc/en-us/articles/18896094650513-How-to-manually-install-Android-on-your-Fairphone |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Fairphone (Gen. 6) with privacy first /e/OS |url=https://shop.fairphone.com/the-fairphone-gen-6-e-operating-system |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|Framework
|They have 10/10 repair score by iFixit site for most of their products. They also support right to repair themselves.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sustainability |url=https://frame.work/sustainability |url-status=live |website=[[Framework]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Frauenheim |first=Carsten |title=Framework Laptop 13 Repair |url=https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Framework_Laptop |url-status=live |website=[[iFixit]]}}</ref>
|-
|Home Assistant
|Open-source smart home platform that provides local control, automation, and interoperability for a wide range of smart home devices. Provides support for many cloud devices after they're subject to [[discontinuation bricking]].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Home Assistant |url=https://www.home-assistant.io/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129222300/https://www.home-assistant.io/ |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Noctua
|Extremely long support for old products and availability of upgrade kits
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |date=19 Feb 2026 |title=The Last CPU Cooler You Will Ever Buy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|Numatic International
|A UK based manufacture of commercial and consumer wet/dry floor cleaning products (vacuums, scrubbers, floor buffers) that provides a robust library of technical documents, parts breakdowns, data sheets and training for free on both new and existing products without the need to login, pay additional fees or be an approved repair facility.
|
|-
|Oral-B
|When installing the Android App, there is no login, and the user is asked for analytics tracking consent.
|
|-
|Philips
|Added files for replacement parts to Printables so you can 3D print parts for your Philips products
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Philips |url=https://www.printables.com/@Philips |url-status=live |website=Printables}}</ref>
|-
|ratgdo
|A garage door opener controller developed by Paul Wieland, allowing you to locally control it (namely Chamberlain openers that would otherwise require the MyQ app for smart home features).
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wieland |first=Paul |title=About - ratgdo |url=https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251213022055/https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |archive-date=2025-12-13 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Reticulum
|Reticulum is an open-source, decentralized networking stack designed to communicate between practically any wireless device, even without internet. Its purpose is to provide fully anonymous end-to-end encrypted communication by default, especially in the age of government surveillance. The Reticulum network, protocol, and hardware are not tied any company in particular but were initially created by Github user 'markqvist'. Honorable mention to NomadNet, which is a network of nodes that serve webpages, similar to the internet, that communicate via Reticulum.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=markqvist |title=Reticulum Network |url=https://reticulum.network/ |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Reticulum |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222180553/https://reticulum.network/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|RME Audio
|Audio equipment manufacturer that provides reliable, high-quality audio interfaces and equipment with driver and firmware support that spans 15+ years. Extensive documentation and support for both Mac, Windows, and USB Class-Compliant machines on all of their products across several OS generations ensures compatibility, transparency, and a dedication for keeping old hardware alive.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Apr 2026 |title=RME |url=https://www.rme-usa.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Apr 2026 |website=RME-usa.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Apr 2026 |title=RME Downloads |url=https://www.rme-usa.com/downloads.html |url-status=live |access-date=28 Apr 2026 |website=RME-usa.com}}</ref>
|-
|stevesgames.co.uk
|Will never put ads or in-app purchases in their computer games and will make gamees available for free after securing the companys future.
|
|-
|Tektronix
|Provided extensive product data on unsupported products to a museum, vintageTEK, and thus to tekwiki and the rest of the community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lenihan |first=Thomas F. |date=2012-02-28 |title=Copyright Notice |url=https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250828004431/https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |archive-date=2025-08-28 |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=vintageTEK museum}}</ref>
|-
|Ulanzi
|The company offers a tutorial on how users can mix their own fog juice to use with Ulanzi mini fog machines from readily available low-cost ingredients, whereas competitors sell proprietary fog juice at extortionate prices, refuse to release the formula and refuse to honour the warranty if users use anything but the OEM brand with their machines.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tutorial {{!}} How to DIY Ulanzi FM01 Fog Machine Juice? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM |type=Video}} ([https://preservetube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM Archived])</ref>
|-
|ZSA
|This company produces programmable ergonomic keyboards. They have 10/10 repair score by iFixit site for one of their keyboards <ref>{{Cite web |title=ErgoDox EZ Keyboard Repairability Assessment |url=https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/ErgoDox+EZ+Keyboard+Repairability+Assessment/125077}}</ref>. They also support right to repair themselves <ref>{{Cite web |title=Supporting the Right to Repair |url=https://blog.zsa.io/2105-right-to-repair/}}</ref>. They have their own web software to modify keyboard layout <ref>{{Cite web |title=Voyager default layout |url=https://configure.zsa.io/voyager/layouts/default/latest/2}}</ref>, but it's possible to download source code of your layout and compile and flash it yourself using their fork of the QMK <ref>{{Cite web |title=QMK, forked for ZSA's Oryx Configurator (to safeguard stability) |url=https://github.com/zsa/qmk_firmware/}}</ref>. The flashing can be done with standard tools, without any signing and bootloader unlocking.
|
|}

==See Also==

*[[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory]]
*[[Other Channels - Video Directory|Other Channels - Video Directory]]

==Reference List==
<references />

Avid Technology

2026-04-27T16:55:45Z

Wildwood2017: /* Proprietary Solutions */ Added new proprietary solution.

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material may be subject to privacy issues associated with Google Cloud and Gemini/Vertex; critical for sensitive media under security by the dub stage and evolving cloud workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tehrani |first=Cyrus |date=3 Feb 2026 |title=Google Gemini security risks and privacy concerns explained |url=https://concentric.ai/google-gemini-security-risks/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Cocentric AI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Building a future-ready security strategy: Lessons from leading studios |url=https://blogs.autodesk.com/media-and-entertainment/2026/04/21/building-a-future-ready-security-strategy-lessons-from-leading-studios/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Autodesk}}</ref>

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Apr 2026 |title=Avid makes a deal with Google for a new AI tool |url=https://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=433718 |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Pro Audio Community (DUC)}}</ref>

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Education Software Policy===
All Avid Software Products that are labeled and sold as "Educational", "Academic", or similar use case versions cannot be used for commercial use. A full priced, non educational license is required for all use cases. Additionally, users cannot apply any special-price education software redemption or renewal codes to a commercial version of the same product, and the users will require a refund to purchase the full-price version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2024 |title=End User License Terms for Avid Software - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/end-user-license-terms-for-avid-software |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===
These are proprietary solutions:<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=Trademarks & Other Notices - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/trademarks-and-other-notices |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''DigiLink/DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD, DNxHR, DNxIO]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [<- ''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Nov 2024 |title=Avid DNxHD® List of Patent Rights - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/avid-dnxhd-list-of-patent-rights |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>
*'''Open Media Framework Interchange (OMF/OMFI)''' - Platform-independent interchange format for transferring digital media and effect metadata across software applications. Despite being listed as "open", it is developed and under license from Avid and intended to be used to transfer media to Pro Tools and Media Composer. Now superseded by the independent [[wikipedia:Advanced_Authoring_Format|Advanced Authoring Format (AAF)]] standard<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 Sep 1997 |title=OMF Interchange Specification Version 2.1 |url=https://www.cubase.it/wp/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/omfspec21.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=27 Apr 2026 |website=Cubase.it}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware<ref group="note"> Avid MBOX Studio is listed on the Avid.com website as a hardware feature page [https://www.avid.com/products/mbox-studio here], however the hardware is declared End of Sale so it is not listed here. Will be removed when the page is updated. </ref>
**Pro Tools | HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-27T04:51:30Z

Wildwood2017: /* Sibelius */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material may be subject to privacy issues associated with Google Cloud and Gemini/Vertex; critical for sensitive media under security by the dub stage and evolving cloud workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tehrani |first=Cyrus |date=3 Feb 2026 |title=Google Gemini security risks and privacy concerns explained |url=https://concentric.ai/google-gemini-security-risks/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Cocentric AI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Building a future-ready security strategy: Lessons from leading studios |url=https://blogs.autodesk.com/media-and-entertainment/2026/04/21/building-a-future-ready-security-strategy-lessons-from-leading-studios/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Autodesk}}</ref>

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Apr 2026 |title=Avid makes a deal with Google for a new AI tool |url=https://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=433718 |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Pro Audio Community (DUC)}}</ref>

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Education Software Policy===
All Avid Software Products that are labeled and sold as "Educational", "Academic", or similar use case versions cannot be used for commercial use. A full priced, non educational license is required for all use cases. Additionally, users cannot apply any special-price education software redemption or renewal codes to a commercial version of the same product, and the users will require a refund to purchase the full-price version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2024 |title=End User License Terms for Avid Software - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/end-user-license-terms-for-avid-software |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===
These are proprietary solutions:<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=Trademarks & Other Notices - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/trademarks-and-other-notices |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''DigiLink/DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD, DNxHR, DNxIO]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [<- ''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Nov 2024 |title=Avid DNxHD® List of Patent Rights - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/avid-dnxhd-list-of-patent-rights |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware<ref group="note"> Avid MBOX Studio is listed on the Avid.com website as a hardware feature page [https://www.avid.com/products/mbox-studio here], however the hardware is declared End of Sale so it is not listed here. Will be removed when the page is updated. </ref>
**Pro Tools | HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-27T04:48:50Z

Wildwood2017: Added a note about a piece of hardware

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material may be subject to privacy issues associated with Google Cloud and Gemini/Vertex; critical for sensitive media under security by the dub stage and evolving cloud workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tehrani |first=Cyrus |date=3 Feb 2026 |title=Google Gemini security risks and privacy concerns explained |url=https://concentric.ai/google-gemini-security-risks/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Cocentric AI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Building a future-ready security strategy: Lessons from leading studios |url=https://blogs.autodesk.com/media-and-entertainment/2026/04/21/building-a-future-ready-security-strategy-lessons-from-leading-studios/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Autodesk}}</ref>

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Apr 2026 |title=Avid makes a deal with Google for a new AI tool |url=https://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=433718 |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Pro Audio Community (DUC)}}</ref>

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Education Software Policy===
All Avid Software Products that are labeled and sold as "Educational", "Academic", or similar use case versions cannot be used for commercial use. A full priced, non educational license is required for all use cases. Additionally, users cannot apply any special-price education software redemption or renewal codes to a commercial version of the same product, and the users will require a refund to purchase the full-price version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2024 |title=End User License Terms for Avid Software - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/end-user-license-terms-for-avid-software |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===
These are proprietary solutions:<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=Trademarks & Other Notices - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/trademarks-and-other-notices |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''DigiLink/DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD, DNxHR, DNxIO]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [<- ''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Nov 2024 |title=Avid DNxHD® List of Patent Rights - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/avid-dnxhd-list-of-patent-rights |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware<ref group="note"> Avid MBOX Studio is listed on the Avid.com website as a hardware feature page [https://www.avid.com/products/mbox-studio here], however the hardware is declared End of Sale so it is not listed here. Will be removed when the page is updated. </ref>
**Pro Tools | HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<nowiki><ref></nowiki>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}<nowiki></ref></nowiki>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-25T05:28:51Z

Wildwood2017: /* Policies */ Expanded the policies section and added more cites regarding the various legal + terms of Avid's products

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material may be subject to privacy issues associated with Google Cloud and Gemini/Vertex; critical for sensitive media under security by the dub stage and evolving cloud workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tehrani |first=Cyrus |date=3 Feb 2026 |title=Google Gemini security risks and privacy concerns explained |url=https://concentric.ai/google-gemini-security-risks/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Cocentric AI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Building a future-ready security strategy: Lessons from leading studios |url=https://blogs.autodesk.com/media-and-entertainment/2026/04/21/building-a-future-ready-security-strategy-lessons-from-leading-studios/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Autodesk}}</ref>

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Apr 2026 |title=Avid makes a deal with Google for a new AI tool |url=https://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=433718 |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Pro Audio Community (DUC)}}</ref>

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

=== Education Software Policy ===
All Avid Software Products that are labeled and sold as "Educational", "Academic", or similar use case versions cannot be used for commercial use. A full priced, non educational license is required for all use cases. Additionally, users cannot apply any special-price education software redemption or renewal codes to a commercial version of the same product, and the users will require a refund to purchase the full-price version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2024 |title=End User License Terms for Avid Software - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/end-user-license-terms-for-avid-software |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=Trademarks & Other Notices - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/trademarks-and-other-notices |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>===

*'''DigiLink/DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD, DNxHR, DNxIO]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [<- ''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Nov 2024 |title=Avid DNxHD® List of Patent Rights - Avid Technology |url=https://www.avid.com/legal/avid-dnxhd-list-of-patent-rights |url-status=live |access-date=24 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-24T00:37:42Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026) */ Reworked section and added cites

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material may be subject to privacy issues associated with Google Cloud and Gemini/Vertex; critical for sensitive media under security by the dub stage and evolving cloud workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tehrani |first=Cyrus |date=3 Feb 2026 |title=Google Gemini security risks and privacy concerns explained |url=https://concentric.ai/google-gemini-security-risks/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Cocentric AI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Building a future-ready security strategy: Lessons from leading studios |url=https://blogs.autodesk.com/media-and-entertainment/2026/04/21/building-a-future-ready-security-strategy-lessons-from-leading-studios/ |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Autodesk}}</ref>

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Apr 2026 |title=Avid makes a deal with Google for a new AI tool |url=https://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=433718 |url-status=live |access-date=23 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Pro Audio Community (DUC)}}</ref>

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-23T21:37:32Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Advantage Support System */ fix for current release

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support Expert], [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-23T21:33:47Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Advantage Support System */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-23T21:32:55Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Advantage Support System */ Added several external sites.

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with [[wikipedia:Google_Cloud_Platform|Google Cloud]] in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/avid-advantage-support/oncue-program_a4_ds.pdf OnCue Incident Mangement]
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
[https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/avidtech-d6a2e9a9/media/files/legal/avid-designated-support-expert-offer-description.pdf?sc_lang=en Dedicated Support
Expert,] [https://www.avid.com/support/avid-service-account-manager Avid Service
Account Manager]
|-
|Self-Help Options
|[https://www.avid.com/search#tab=Knowledge%20Base Avid Knowledge Base],
Avid Forums
([https://duc.avid.com Digidesign User Community],
[https://community.avid.com Avid Video Community],
[https://www.sibelius.com/cgi-bin/helpcenter/chat/chat.pl?com=show&groupid=3 Sibelius Community])
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-23T21:13:36Z

Wildwood2017: General enhancements.

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Pro Audio, Pro Video, Music, Broadcast
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in August of 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets. They are most well known for the music software Pro Tools, scoring software Sibelius, and video editing software Media Composer.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' - HD/HDX Family digital interface connector<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' - Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided (EUCON controls software, but software cannot)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' - Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' - Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film postproduction workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Article suggestions

2026-04-23T16:45:23Z

Wildwood2017: Removed due to incorrect information, Apple keeps Logic Pro and most of the Creative Suite apps as a separate one-time purchase with free upgrade path as an option. Other apps like Pages, Keynote, get enhanced features on already default apps.

This page is dedicated towards providing a communal list for users to submit potential articles to feature on the wiki, and to give editors inspiration on what pages they might want to add to the wiki. If you create an article based on an entry from this list, or see that someone else has done so, please make sure to delete the row from this page in order to prevent confusion.

Sources should be inserted within the 'refs' section of the table. If using the visual editor, take advantage of '<nowiki/>'''insert reference'''<nowiki/>' via {{Key press|Ctrl|Shift|K}} so that the sources are quick to add to future articles. If you are using the source editor, feel free to copy and paste the formatting from other correctly formatted references on the page. The more sources you include with an article idea, the more likely it is that others will pick the article idea up and run with it, so please attempt to include a good variety of descriptive sources!

Please take note of the wiki's [[Consumer Rights Wiki:Inclusion guidelines|Inclusion criteria]] when submitting article suggestions. If you see article suggestions here which do not fit the Wiki, feel free to remove them, leaving your reasoning in an edit note.

If you are an editor looking for further inspiration to write an article, you can also check out the [[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory|Louis Rossmann video directory]] and [[Other Channels - Video Directory|other channels video directory]] for a good collections of potential articles.

==Example==
Below is an example of what an entry should appear as:
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|[[Nintendo]]
|In 2025, the company Nintendo stripped Switch 2 consoles that used the MIG switch cartridge of all online functionality
|<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Scattered Brain |date=Jun 16, 2025 |title=Soo... Nintendo banned my Switch 2 (Don't try the MIG Switch!) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo&t=656s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=Jun 18, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=Jun 17, 2025 |title=Switch 2 users report online console bans after running personal game “backups” |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251222013641/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |archive-date=22 Dec 2025|access-date=Jun 19, 2025 |work=Ars Technica}}</ref>
|}

==List of incidents not yet covered==
[[Category:Sources]]
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|194 Online Marketing Services (incl. Google, Microsoft, Meta)
|Survey shows that more than half of websites set marketing cookies despite users opting out via Do Not Track header, Browser add-ons or by declining cookie banners. Google calles it a "misunderstanding of how their products work", Meta comments that according to the law an opt-out only prohibits selling of the data, not collecting it.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.404media.co/google-microsoft-meta-all-tracking-you-even-when-you-opt-out-according-to-an-independent-audit/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://globalprivacyaudit.org/2026/california}}</ref>
|-
|8Player
|In early March, 2026, the Apple TV application called 8Player began displaying a notice informing users who had already paid for the app, that the app would not continue to function unless they agreed to an ongoing subscription.
The text of the notice says the following:
----Thank you for being a valued 8player user.

To keep improving the app and delivering new features, 8player is moving to a subscription model.

You can continue using the full version at no cost until April 15, 2026.

After that, activate the subscription in the app to keep full access. Your existing features will remain available, and no action is needed today.

Thank you for supporting 8player over the years.

[[:File:8player-subscription-model-notice.png]]
|
|-
|[[ABC Financial Services]]
|Manages memberships and recurring service subscriptions for other companies. Prevents customers from being able to cancel a service by locking them into a never-ending cycle of auto renewals, and not allowing the customer to opt out of auto renewal.
|-
|[[Acer]]
|Removed Predator/Nitro Sense Applications for laptops from their support sites somewhere in early March 2026 (Looking at wayback machine snapshots). The application is required by the laptops to be able to toggle "Turbo" mode, which applies overclocks and boosts cooling. Additionally, recent Windows update(s) (KB5083769/KB5082417) have broken the application, making users unable to use it even if you were able to install it.
|-
|Affinity / [[Canva]] page created needs editors to help
|Canva purchases [[Serif]]; the owner of perpetual license design software Affinity Publisher, Designer, and Photo on March 26th 2024. Provides a pledge to assure users that Canva will not "ruin" the suite. In October 2025, Affinity users are locked out of the community forum for a new "Creative Freedom" announcement on October 30th 2025. Complete radio silence for a whole month while they tease long term users on Twitter and Discord. Finally on October 30th 2025, the new Affinity software is announced as "free". Instead, all creative professionals that used the original software are forced to create a new Canva account to access the new Affinity and thus agree to Canva's ToS<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-10-30 |title=Canva Terms of Use |url=https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128105545/https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=Canva Legal Trust Center}}</ref>. Affinity redirects the pledge page to an announcement for the new software, effectively burying the original pledge<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2024-03-27 |title=The Affinity and Canva Pledge |url=https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002083749/https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge/ |archive-date=2025-10-02 |website=web.archive.org}}</ref>. Questions about Canva now being able to monetize the work of professionals to train their own AI models sold to Canva users are left unanswered. Free, but at what cost?
EDIT: Initial article has been written but needs more work, citation, and verification. [[Canva Affinity Studio adds arbitration clause|See this article here]].
|<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" />
|-
|[[Alibaba]]
|{{Wplink|Alibaba Group|Wikipedia entry}}
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|[[Apotheka]]
|Personal ID codes, purchase information and contact details of almost half of Estonian citizens and residents have been compromised in a mass data breach of the IT system operated by Allium UPI, a firm dealing with pharmacy and hospital products.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-04 |title=Cybercriminals steal data of around 700,000 Apotheka pharmacy customers |url=https://news.err.ee/1609302096/cybercriminals-steal-data-of-around-700-000-apotheka-pharmacy-customers |url-status=live |website=[[ERR]]}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]]
|$17 000 Apple Watch 18 karat gold edition out of support only 8 years after its introduction (not end of sale!). This means no software support, and, crucially, no repair or replacement parts. If the battery dies, the watch is but a paperweight.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple will no longer fix the $17,000 gold Apple Watch |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222211749/https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|website=The Verge}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]], [[Beats]]
|No support for Powerbeats (4th generation) despite the headphones being under 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale. The product is not listed as discontinued or vintage, and by Apple's own guidelines, should be eligible for replacement parts and repair. OEM replacement eartips cannot be purchased for any Beats earphones.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260207094149/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |archive-date=7 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Beats Repair and Service |url=https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104000857/https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |archive-date=4 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple store search for eartips |url=https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251028001314/https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |archive-date=28 Oct 2025|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref>
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|[[Apple]] iWork/Creator Studio
|The update that makes the iWork apps part of the new Apple Creator Studio subscription now adds tracking that is enabled by default and implemented as opt-out. The information about it is displayed in a first launch screen without any immediate way opt out, which qualifies as a dark pattern. Instead, the user has to go through a slightly convoluted path via the iPhone/iPad system settings app, and under the submenu "Apps" find each of the iWork apps and disable analytics there individually for each app. On Desktop, it is under a dedicated menu item under the "Pages"/"Numbers"/"Keynote" menu.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=New versions of Keynote, Numbers, and Pages collect telemetry by default on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032029/https://old.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Apple]] / [[Visa]]
|Apple & Visa have known about a vulnerability in their payment processing systems regarding transit systems since 2021 hand have done nothing to prevent scams from exploiting the vulnerability.
Apple blames Visa for the vulnerability, and Visa simply says if you see it happen on your account then you can dispute the charge, and they'll give you your money back... but this requires you to actually notice that you've been scammed in this way, which could be pretty easy to miss unless you are checking your bank statements regularly.
|<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPJ6NJkmDAo&list=WL&index=35</ref>
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|[[archive.today]] / archive.ph (Web Archival Service)
|The website used [[JavaScript]] embedded into the website code to conduct a DDOS attack from users' devices against a blogger who has voiced criticism of the service in the past. This may make also cause legal issues for users.
NOTE: A similar technique has previously been used by Chinese search giant [[Baidu]], so we might want to create a category or tag for this type of thing

ADDENDUM: This page was reported to have been changing the information displayed in some archived screenshots, such as the author who published particular articles.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kirchner |first=Malte |last2=Kunz |first2=Dr. Christopher |date=10 Feb 2026 |title=Archive.today: Operator uses users for DDoS attack |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260212060655/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |archive-date=12 Feb 2026 |website=heise}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |title=Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links - LMG Clips |url=https://youtu.be/rrnFUvFGf5A?si=32JRogu2ID9xykHd |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=LMG Clips on YouTube - Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links}}</ref>
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|[[ASUS]] (ROG)
|Releases bios updates via windows executable, meaning that you can't update your bios to the latest version to amend a security vulnerability or fix an issue unless you're running microsoft windows. The windows executable simply extracts a binary file, that you can drop on a thumb drive. This could be easily done via direct download to support other operating systems.
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|[[Atlassian]]
|Users forced from on-premise to cloud only subscriptions
Edit: Page has been started [[Atlassian on premise to subscription|here]], more work, citation, and verification needs to be done.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ascend to the cloud: The next chapter for Atlassian and our customers |url=https://www.atlassian.com/blog/announcements/atlassian-ascend |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018171903/https://www.atlassian.com/blog/announcements/atlassian-ascend |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref>
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|[[Aura]]
|Data Breach March 2026
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|[[AutoAuth]]
|'''AutoAuth''' represents a significant shift toward "repair-by-subscription," where owning a vehicle no longer guarantees the right to maintain it. By placing a digital firewall between the owner and the car’s computer, AutoAuth forces independent shops and DIY enthusiasts to pay recurring access fees and register their personal data with a third-party gatekeeper just to perform basic maintenance, such as electronic parking brake retractions or oil life resets.
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|[[Bayer]]
|[[wikipedia:Bayer|Wikipedia]]. See [[Monsanto]]
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|[[Benjamin]]
|Offerwall phone app that pays users money for various tasks- such as watching ads, or downloading and using software. After years of user satisfaction, in late 2025, the company first put a 2 month moratorium on users' ability to withdraw their earned money, then rolled out a massive wave of enshittification features, the most egregious of which, is a "withdrawl queue", where withdrawing your earnings is placed into a queue with no visible progress. No days, no queue tracker, many members have been waiting over 3 months for their withdrawls to be processed, on a feature listed as "instant withdrawl". Various policies also implemented that would completely void a user's earned money, mainly inactivity but also many baseless random user bans (many of which were reversed). There are hundreds of frustrated user testimonials on reddit (https://www.reddit.com/r/benjaminone/).
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|Berlin
|City of Berlin installs security cameras that alerts authorities about people who are "loitering without reason".
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=10 Mar 2026 |title=Surveillance in Berlin: When AI reports "loitering without reason" |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Surveillance-in-Berlin-When-AI-reports-loitering-without-reason-11206420.html |website=heise}}</ref>
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|[[Better Business Bureau]] (BBB)
|Users who have been wronged and even scammed by companies have recently started reporting that the BBB has ignored, rejected, misclassified, closed prematurely or taken down their valid, BBB compliant, complaints for no apparent reason<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-29 |title=Better Business Bureau Reviews |url=https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bbb.org |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-29 |website=Trustpilot}}</ref>. Attempts to remedy the situation often result in unanswered/ignored emails and ghosting. Companies with large percentages of unresolved complaints often get an A+ rating (which basically contradicts the BBB's own guidelines). This is especially true when it comes to paying BBB member companies, but is often also the case with non member companies. A Redditors explained that a company can easily buy an A+ BBB rating by paying the BBB<ref>{{Cite web |title=Waste Managment sent an ad disguised as a bill |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ColoradoSprings/comments/1l6hr18/comment/mwpys3o/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-30 |website=Reddit}}</ref> or by paying a lawyer to threaten to sue the BBB for defamation.
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|-
|[[Best Buy]]
|In late 2025, BestBuy added [https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. "Comparable Value"] as means of comparing values of products that is of equivalent value to other products sold by manufacturers, 1st party, or 3rd party vendors. Changes to their pricing model has made it to where it is more difficult to determine overall value of a product compared to MSRP.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Support |first=Best Buy |date=2025-01-24 |title=Pricing: Promotions |url=https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Best Buy}}</ref>
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|[[Blackview]]
|[https://www.blackview.hk Blackview], a technology brand that originally specialized in rugged outdoor phones more info at [https://www.blackview.hk/about-blackview "About us]"
Certain Phones have been hit with advertisements from the App called "System message" which is baked in the OS, "Allow Notification dots" can be disabled however "All System message notifications" and neither "Push" notifications cannot be disabled by the user. The App cannot be disabled nor uninstalled, it can be forced stopped and set the battery restriction option to "restricted". I [[User:SolidSnakePliskin|SolidSnakePliskin]] creating this entry have seen this happen firsthand on 1st April 2026 on my Blackview Model Number: N6000 (EEA) Purchased on [https://web.archive.org/web/20260401174012/https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0CCXBNTWR Amazon Italy]. OS Details: Android Version 13 (Security Update November 5, 2025) & DokeOS 3.1. Further More other Reddit users complaining [https://old.reddit.com/r/blackview/comments/1mo441x/get_rid_of_system_notification_that_contains_ads/ here].
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|[[Bluesky]]
|Introduced ID check for Direct Messaging to comply with laws in certain states and abroad, despite both the company and community being against it.
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|[[Carvana]]
|Saying cars that have been in accidents have not; Lies about inspection and does not replace brake pads even when worn down. Non-refundable $1,500 shipping fee. See [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9yhOeTUEo4 Louis Rossmann's video]
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|[[Cisco Systems, Inc.]]
|Requires employees to sign perpetual forced arbitration agreements when hired, preventing current or former employees from ever suing the company.
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|-
|[[Chuwi]]
|Misleading consumers by falsifying the specsheet of one of their latest laptops, and repeatedly threatened one of the online publications that wrote an article of their alleged misdeeds.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leitner |first=Simon |date=2026-03-12 |title=CPU fraud, next round: Chuwi CoreBook Plus with supposed AMD Ryzen 5 7430U also affected |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/CPU-fraud-next-round-Chuwi-CoreBook-Plus-with-supposed-AMD-Ryzen-5-7430U-also-affected.1248660.0.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/N7UmU |archive-date=2026-03-12 |access-date=2026-03-12 |website=Notebookcheck}}</ref>
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|[[Cloudary Holdings Limited / Webnovel]]
|Terms of service with binding Arbitration.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Webnovel ToS |url=https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101204816/https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |archive-date=1 Jan 2026}}</ref>
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|[[Devolo]]
|Devolo switches off servers and removes their app from stores for their "Home Control" system, thus severely reducing the functionality of their devices (apparently Z-Wave-based).
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=IT-News für Profis |url=https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251210052941/https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |archive-date=10 Dec 2025|website=Golem |language=de}}</ref>
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|[[DeviantArt]]
|DeviantArt launched in 2000 and quickly became a household name among digital artists. [https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community But in 2017 WiX] bought the website and in 2022 had made all art on it's site liable to be training data by default. They then back peddled and then set all art to noai by default. Now they are moving basic functions to be behind their paywall. [https://www.deviantart.com/razorstargazer/journal/Deviantart-is-the-worst-website-ever-created-1309667089 Ones that were free.]
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The AI Controversy on DeviantArt: How a Creative Paradise Became a Battleground |url=https://expertbeacon.com/the-ai-controversy-on-deviantart-how-a-creative-paradise-became-a-battleground/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Wix Acquires DeviantArt, Pairing Wix Capabilities with Global Creative Community |url=https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community |url-status=live}}</ref>
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|DotPe cyber-sec negligence
|In 2024, an Indian company that provides digital services to food-chains got trivially hacked/cracked, allowing anyone to get customer data and company revenue-stats across many countries
|<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20240923081639/https://peabee.substack.com/p/whats-inside-the-qr-code-menu-at</ref>
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|[[Digital Europe]] (lobby organization consisting of [[Microsoft]], [[Google]], [[Amazon]], and [[Meta]])
|Group lobbied to keep datacenter emissions secret from consumers via confidentiality clause that was adopted almost verbatim by the Eurpean Comission, intentionally keeping consumers in the dark about the environmental impact of the products they use.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title= |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/apr/17/microsoft-us-tech-firms-lobbied-eu-secrecy-rules-datacentre-emissions}}</ref>
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|[[E621]]
|Terms of service that require agreement to forced arbitration to use the website.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-02 |title=E621 |url=https://e621.net/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128164339/https://e621.net/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=E621}}</ref>
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|[[EcoVac]]
|Vacuum cleaner robots produced by company 'EcoVac' were found vulnerable to hacking over bluetooth allowing for remote control and access to camera feed. Security researcher Dennis Giese notified the company in December of 2023. In August of 2024, the issue was described by the company as "extremely rare in typical user environments and require specialized hacking tools and physical access to the device."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fell |first=Julian |date=2024-10-04 |title=We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera - ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251128025250/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |archive-date=28 Nov 2025|access-date=2025-09-10 |website=ABC News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-09 |title=Ecovacs home robots can be hacked to spy on their owners, researchers say {{!}} TechCrunch |url=https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212044/https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |archive-date=2026-02-22 |access-date=10 Aug 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-15 |title=Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai on X: "Finally, Ecovacs responds to the researchers' findings, saying it won't fix the bugs. |url=https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241108194816/https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |archive-date=8 Nov 2024}}</ref>
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|[[Elegoo Centauri Carbon|Elegoo]]
|The Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3d printer has been proven to use open source Klipper software which requires them to publish their changes to the code.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-28 |title=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance |url=https://freethecode.lol/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206142736/https://freethecode.lol/ |archive-date=6 Dec 2025|access-date=2025-08-28 |website=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance}}</ref>
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|[[Ericcson]]
|Data Breach March 2026
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|-
|[[FBI]]
|FBI buys location data of US citizens
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=FBI is buying location data to track US citizens, director confirms |url=https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/18/fbi-is-buying-location-data-to-track-us-citizens-kash-patel-wyden/ |url-status=live |website=[[TechCrunch]]}}</ref>
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|[[Ford]]
|Front-trunk access is now a paid extra for the Ford Mach-E (aka, the electric "mustang"). I could comment about it not being a real mustang, because they turned a two-door muscle-car into a four-door crossover that looks like a rav-4... But that's probably entirely subjective in comparison to ford making the front trunk an optional upgrade, and burying that option amongst others like wheel locks and bumper cover protectors.
My source is youtube. If I had a better source, I'd probably just add this to the Ford Page, but this needs more research.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shifting Lanes Garage and Shifting Lanes |date=2026-03-24 |title=Nobody Wants This, Stop Doing It |url=https://youtu.be/TJAF3XFEXOg?si=0VkjHl0qNZjOoKX2 |website=YouTube}}</ref>
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|[[Foxconn]]
|Foxconn is an electronics manufacturer with various human rights violations on it's record. They've also convinced the government to use eminent domain to take people's property to build factories, that never end up using the factories.
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|Foxit Reader
|Updater uses dark pattern to trick unsuspecting users into installing a trial version of their paid product. The checkbox is enabled again by default with each update in the hope that the user misses it by accident at some point.
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|[[Gaggia]]
|Between 2015 to 2019, the redesigned Gaggia Classic removed the traditional three-way solenoid valve. The valve was restored in the 2019 Gaggia Classic Pro after criticism and backlash from the espresso enthusiast community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waddell |first=Kelsey |date=2023-03-23 |title=Gaggia Classic vs Pro: A Closer Look at the Differences |url=https://www.roastycoffee.com/gaggia-classic-vs-pro/ |website=Roasty Coffee}}</ref>
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|[[General Motors|GM]]
|GM originally released the EV1 in 1996 on a lease program, and then instead of selling the much loved used/leased vehicles to consumers, they decided to crush the grand majority of them. Very few surviving examples can be found today, with most in private collections or at universities.
Because it was seen as a failure to major auto manufacturers, It would take over a decade before another EV was produced in the United States.
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|[[Google Chromecast]]
|Chromecast has transitioned from a standalone product to one that [[Forced_app_download|requires the Google Home app]] for setup and control. This change prevents customers who either don't own a smartphone or prefer not to use the app from accessing their Chromecast devices. As a result, certain televisions—such as the Caixon EC43S1UA, which relied on built-in Chromecast functionality—can no longer be used as intended. This effectively removes a key feature from a product that was already purchased, diminishing its value or rendering it unusable altogether.
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|Google TLS Changes
|Google's new requirements to certificate authorities require separate authority/signing chains to be used to issue Server Authentication and Client Authentication certificates. Therefore, starting 11 February 2026, Let's Encrypt will no longer include the Client Authentication EKU on default certificates
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|-
|[[Google]]
|Google apparently plans to reduce the interval of publishing source code of security patches they consider non-critical. This is another blow to the custom ROM community.
Right now we don't have these incidents organised chronologically, maybe we should have a table with a timeline of measures Google takes to enshittify and close down Android (more APIs moved to Play Services, Developer verification, withholding AOSP device trees for Pixel devices to mess with [[GrapheneOS]], now delayed source code disclosure). What's worst, they always cite safety as a reason.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exclusive: Google wants to make Android phones safer by switching to ‘risk-based’ security updates |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260107025310/https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-date=7 Jan 2026 |website=Android Authority}}</ref>
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|[[Google Maps]]
|Google restricts data visible in Google Maps for users who are not signed in with an account (see [[Forced account]]). Reviews and photos are no longer visible without login. This also forces users to agree to Google's TOS and logs them into all other Google services, such as YouTube or Google Search so that now all their data in those other services is associated with their accounts. This also raises concerns that other services such as YouTube might follow.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Feb 2026 |title=Google Maps now forces you to sign-in |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032117/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Feb 2026 |title=Can't view images without logging in? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032213/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref>
|-
|Google ([[YouTube]])
|YouTube removes option to sort search results by upload date, leaving users with no way to bypass algorithm-based sorting, which prioritizes the platform's incentive to generate ad impressions by showing engaging but unrelated content over the user's interest to find what they came to the website to find
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Missing 'sort by most recent' and other filters on YouTube search? Try this workaround for desktop [U: Workarounds patched] |url=https://piunikaweb.com/2026/02/05/youtube-search-filters-missing-url-parameters-workaround/}}</ref>
|-
|[[Google]], [[Mozilla]], [[Apple]], [[Microsoft]], but largely Google-led
|Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are removing XSLT 1.0 support, which could break critical parts of government's websites worldwide<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dimant |first=Dimitrii "Mamut" |date=2025-08-10 |title=XSLT removal will break multiple government and regulatory sites across the world #11582 |url=https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211221059/https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=Github (specifically the Web Hypertext Application Technology Working Group's HTML standards repo, controlled by Mozilla, Google, Microsoft and Apple)}}</ref>. There are valid security reasons for them to want to stop supporting this 1999-era standard, however they have had 26+ years to update to a newer standard (such as the 2017-era 3.1 standard, which is backwards compatible and would allow these sites to continue to work<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-03-21 |title="XML Path Language (XPath) 3.1: W3C Recommendation 21 March 2017" |url=https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260116015839/https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |archive-date=16 Jan 2026|website=W3C}}</ref>). The single unpaid developer maintaining these libraries has more or less retired after getting flooded with impossible to satisfy security requests from these companies<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wellnhoffer |first=Nick |date=2025-05-08 |title=Triaging security issues reported by third parties |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231248/https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>. There is an existing project called XRUST to implement the 3.1 standard<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-09 |title=XRust: XPath, XQuery, and XSLT for Rust |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204085435/https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |archive-date=4 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>, which is 2/3rds of the way through supporting all the features of 1.0 - the XSLT part fully supports all the 1.0 features at this point. XSLT is part of the W3C Consortium's open web standards for formatting and presenting XML, and is also how RSS works, so RSS feeds would stop working as well, disrupting the livelihoods of podcasters<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rijo |first=Luis |date=2025-08-20 |title=Google targets RSS feeds in new XSLT removal proposal |url=https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212228/https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=PPC-Land}}</ref>. This has led to questions of who owns the web - the public (including the government) who paid for and laid down the highways / web infrastructure - or a handful of large corporations? <ref>{{Cite web |last=Branscombe |first=Mary |date=2025-09-01 |title=XSLT Debate Leads to Bigger Questions of Web Governance |url=https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231310/https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=The New Stack}}</ref>
|
|-
|[[GoPro]] Hero 12
|GoPro Hero 12 requires the GoPro app to be installed before you can use the camera. Many currently used devices are not compatible with the app, therefore making use of the camera difficult to impossible for new owners or upon camera factory reset. There's also the question of what data the app collects and whether it requires login and or camera activation.
|
|-
|[[Hyundai]] (BlueLink)
|Hyundai ads in-car advertisements for subscription services, while you're driving, after telling you not to look at the screen while driving.
The advertisement is a full page of text, that you can't either enable or disable while you're driving. Your only options are to (A) select later, to delay the ad for another driving session, or (2) Pull over and park your car so you can (C) enable the feature at $10/mo or (iii) dig through settings menus to figure out how to disable the message permanently (which will probably only be actually permanent until the battery in the car dies).
BlueLink appears to be marketing lingo for their cell-phone-linked remote start/stop, lock/unlock, and climate control features. The only feature that should actually need a cellular subscription appears to be stolen vehicle recovery.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Green |first=Hank |date=2026-16-04 |title=Should I Sue Hyundai? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQ1RUyOF2Rk |url-status=live |website=Youtube}}</ref> <ref>https://connected-mobility.hyundai.com/what-we-do/connected-car-services/bluelink</ref>
|-
|Indonesia
|Banning Social Media for children under 16
|
|-
|[[Internet radios]]
|I'd like a page where I can share information about internet radios "openness." Few allow you to enter a radio station's URL (which I would consider the least intrusive option). Most depend on third-party websites or apps; [https://www.sangean.com/uk/blog/149 some of which have already bricked devices].
|
|-
|[[iRacing]]
|iRacing is a racing game that's subscription-based, requiring payment just to play the actual game in either online or offline mode.
|
|-
|[[itch.io]], [[Night School Studios]], [[Netflix]]
|In September 2024, users who purchased the game Oxenfree on itch.io were warned that the game was going to be pulled from the platform on October 1st. Consumers would not be able to download the installers after this date, so they would lose access unless they had them backed up. Users speculated that Netflix, the parent company of the development studio, had ordered the move; however, no response from Netflix or the developers was ever published. This is particularly notable because it is against itch.io's terms of service: "Users shall retain a license to this content even after the content is removed from the Service."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=itch corp |date=15 Apr 2023 |title=itch.io Terms of Service |url=https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907004719/https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |archive-date=7 Sep 2024 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=itch.io}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=ShawnS |date=31 Jan 2025 |title=OXENFREE |url=https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250321070400/https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |archive-date=21 Mar 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=Delisted Games}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Colp |first=Tyler |date=9 Sep 2024 |title=Another reminder that your digital library isn't forever: Oxenfree will be completely removed from Itch.io next month |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250523111125/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |archive-date=23 May 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=PC Gamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[The Japan Times|Japan Times, The]]
|The Japan Times uses the DMCA to take down an open source study resource for the Genki and Quartet workbooks.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clydesdale |first=Seth |date=2025-09-11 |title=Important Information Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251116072121/https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |archive-date=16 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Update Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources DMCA Situation |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251115073152/https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |archive-date=15 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-03 |title=All Exercises for Genki/Quartet Study Resources Have Been Removed |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113045244/https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-date=13 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[Kangaroo]]
|A home security camera company that locks local hardware features behind software subscriptions and paywalls that ultimately could work without external service. Access to local storage playback via the app is locked behind a paywall; see reviews. "cooldown" periods provide a risk to security as motion detection does not activate until after a fixed period of time on no-subscription plans with clips that only capture 12 seconds of recording, this was not always the case.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Delaney |first=John |date=2021-11-09 |title=Kangaroo Indoor + Outdoor Cam Review |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/kangaroo-indoor-plus-outdoor-cam |url-status=live |archive-date=2024-08-11 |access-date=2026-04-01 |website=PCMag}}</ref><ref>https://www.bestbuy.com/product/kangaroo-indoor-outdoor-wired-1080p-security-camera-white/J3QLYYW64G/sku/6506997/reviews?pageSize=20</ref>
|-
|[[Kindle]]
|Kindle is removing support for pre-2012 devices. Text excerpt of email received by a user: "If you deregister or factory reset these devices, you will not be able to re-register or use these devices in any way." [https://www.reddit.com/r/mildlyinfuriating/comments/1sfmjd0/pre2012_kindles_are_being_bricked/ Kindle]
|
|-
|[[Kohls]]
|There is no option to delete your account on their website
|
|-
|[[KOSA]]
|KOSA claims to make kids safer, but it’s really a dangerous censorship bill that would give the U.S. government unprecedented control over the internet. This would put youth in danger by preventing them from accessing potentially life-saving resources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fight for the Future |first= |date=2026-01-24 |title=Reject online censorship. Tell lawmakers to oppose KOSA! |url=https://www.stopkosa.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2026-01-24 |website=Stop KOSA}}</ref><ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20250228145348/https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/Katy-ISD-blocks-LGBTQ-resources-suicide-16647274.php</ref>
|-
|[[LBRY]] Foundation, [[Odysee]]
|Community first decentralization & Odysee's plan to enable censorship by switching away from the opensource LBRY network.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The LBRY Foundation |url=https://lbry.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211161516/https://lbry.org/ |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-08-08 |quote=The LBRY community invites everyone to join us in building a more free and open way to share content and information online.}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Watson |first=RT |date=6 Jun 2024 |title=Decentralized YouTube alternative Odysee acquired by Forward Research despite content concerns |url=https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127094918/https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Aug 2025 |work=The Block}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Li |first=Jun |last2=Grintsvayg |first2=Alex |last3=Kauffman |first3=Jeremy |last4=Fleming |first4=Charles |date=2020 |title=LBRY: A Blockchain-Based Decentralized Digital Content Marketplace |url=https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007 |url-status=live |journal=2020 IEEE International Conference on Decentralized Applications and Infrastructures (DAPPS) |location=Oxford, UK |publisher=IEEE |doi=10.1109/DAPPS49028.2020.00005 |isbn=978-1-7281-6978-1 |url-access=registration |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250825221749/https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007/ |archive-date=25 Aug 2025 |via=IEEE Xplore}}</ref>
|-
|[[LexisNexis]]
|Data breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[LG]]
|LG discontinued its LG Bluetooth Remote app (including plugins such as "btc4") making it non-public on the Play Store and making Bluetooth controllable devices (like for example the CM2630B) half as useful, without even publishing neither the protocol used to control such devices nor the source code of the app.
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|-
|[[Lowe's]]
|Lowe's uses flock cameras and other AI powered cameras to collect data and build a profile on "prospective, current, or former Lowe's customers". Their cameras point away from their stores.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koebler |first=Jason |date=6 Aug 2025 |title=Home Depot and Lowe's Share Data From Hundreds of AI Cameras With Cops |url=https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216173226/https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=404 Media}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Aug 2025 |title=Lowe’s U.S. Privacy Statement |url=https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228013530/https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |archive-date=28 Dec 2025|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=Lowe's}}</ref>
|-
|[[Marquis]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Meta]] and [[YouTube]]
|In a recent trial Meta and Google were found liable for making there social media platforms addictive and harmful
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Jury finds Meta and Google negligent in social media harms trial |url=https://www.npr.org/2026/03/25/nx-s1-5746125/meta-youtube-social-media-trial-verdict |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Campaigners welcome Meta and YouTube's defeat in landmark social media addiction trial |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c747x7gz249o |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Meta and YouTube Found Negligent in Landmark Social Media Addiction Case |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/25/technology/social-media-trial-verdict.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[McDonald's]]/Taylor
|McDonald's US mandates which ice cream machine has to be used by franchise licensees. The company that makes these machines uses deliberately obfuscated error codes to force restaurant owners to use their expensive tech service to fix them and reset the machines. The company makes more money from these "repairs" support than with actual sales. Not strictly end consumer, but the pattern warrants documenting imo.
A similar problem exists with Doremi (Dolby) cinema projectors where their DRM leads to a ridiculous number of actions breaking the so-called "marriage" (projector-media block unity), requiring a costly technician to reset it. This one needs sources researched, though, as I don't have one on hand.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Why McDonald's Ice Cream Machines Are Always Broken and How To Fix Them |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Microsoft]]
|Microsoft's Android keyboard app SwiftKey set to make it impossible to backup user data without a Microsoft Account, backups must be stored in Microsoft cloud
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=18 Mar 2026 |title=SwiftKey will soon require a Microsoft account to save your typing info. |url=https://www.theverge.com/tech/896859/swiftkey-will-soon-require-a-microsoft-account-to-save-your-typing-info}}</ref>
|-
|[[Microsoft]]
|Locked the developers of Windscribe, Veracrypt, and, Wireguard out of their accounts
|
|-
|Microsoft Rewards
|Used to be a good program, but over the last few years they've implemented a number of anti-user policies including extensive cool-downs for earning points on Bing, and making it more difficult to redeem points. There are multiple reports on r/microsoftrewards of people getting banned or restricted when they have over $100 worth of points that they are trying to redeem. They've also removed points opportunities that used to be interesting and engaging.
|
|-
|[[Minut]]
|Minute sells sensors and alarms. They released an alarm (Point) on kickstarter that long after release got a firmware update adding forced subscription if more than one person wanted to use the alarm.
|<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/minut/pointthe-friendly-home-alarm</ref>
<ref>https://www.minut.com/</ref>
|-
|Multiple
|Several legal cases involving forced arbitration in some manner; many of these relate to other anticonsumer practices, such as when Wells Fargo illegally opened up ~3.5M fake checking and credit accounts in customers' names. Highly advised to deeply scrub for supplementary sources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=Apr 16, 2019 |title=Fact Sheet: Cases Tossed Out of Court Because of Forced Arbitration Causes and Class Action Bans |url=https://www.centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans#_ftn1 |access-date=Feb 12, 2026 |website=Center for Justice & Democracy at New York Law School |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251013145327/https://centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|-
|MuseGroup (MuseSounds)
|Releasing more and more subscription sound packs while previously released one-time purchase sound packs are full of bugs/issues and have gone without updates for sometimes over a year. They have also increased the price of one-time purchase packs by about 500% while still providing no additional or improved functionality.
They also added unsolicited popups advertising their paid sound packs at startup of the open source MuseScore application, as well as buttons and commands for their cloud service to the home screen, which cannot be disabled. They previously ran into controversy when changing the privacy policy of Audacity and tried to add tracking. The closed-source MuseHub application (which is required to download the free sound packs) connects to tracking services with neither a real opt-in nor an opt-out option. Newer versions of MuseHub now seem to [[Forced account|require an account]] to download free sound packs and sound effects, which previously was not the case. Muse Hub starts at every system launch by default and stays active in the background despite this not being required for its functionality. They also added proprietary parts to MuseScore (like the MuseSample), which is kept closed source. They also bought StaffPad and seem to have quietly ceased its development without publishing any statements.
|
|-
|[[NationStates]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Navdy]], [[Harman International]]
|Device discontinued and no updates, device can be used offline for 1 year until it stops working.
https://www.reddit.com/r/navdy/
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|-
|[[Navia]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Netgear]] (internet networking equipment)
|Almost every Netgear internet router requires the creation of a new account to function as a router (see [[Forced account]]), where the TOS includes an agreement to binding arbitration. Most if not all devices are locked into proprietary firmware with no option to change. Some automatic updates have reportedly cause loss of performance with option to revert to a previous version, "bricking" the device in some cases.
Engages in anti-consumer practices, requiring a subscription for basic WiFi-router features such as parental controls. According to a blogpost by a senior employee, grew from "45% in 2016 to over 60% in 2019" of the US consumer router market. In 2025, Netgear is "being sued by TP-Link for a 'Smear Campaign' to Advance US Router Ban [of it's competitor TP-Link].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=NETGEAR Terms and Conditions |url=https://www.netgear.com/about/terms-and-conditions/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=What subscription plans are available for NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls? |url=https://kb.netgear.com/000062104/What-subscription-plans-are-available-for-NETGEAR-Smart-Parental-Controls |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Abhay Bhorkar |url=https://www.netgear.com/hub/author/abhorkar/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=TP-Link Accuses Netgear of 'Smear Campaign' to Advance US Router Ban |url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/tp-link-accuses-netgear-of-smear-campaign-to-advance-us-router-ban?test_uuid=04IpBmWGZleS0I0J3epvMrC&test_variant=B |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[https://www.nexigroup.com/ Nexi S.p.A.]
|Nexi is a payment services provider based in Italy, which has been used by the [https://fsfe.org/ Free Software Foundation Europe] (FSFE) for ~ 15 years. They have allegedly been asking FSFE for personal information of FSFE executives and supporters and have recently cancelled their contract with FSFE.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-16 |title=450 FSFE supporters affected: Payment provider Nexi cancelled us |url=https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260317162959/https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |archive-date=2026-03-17 |access-date=2026-03-17 |website=FSFE - Free Software Foundation Europe}}</ref>
|-
|Odido Netherlands B.V.
|Odido is an internet service provider in the Netherlands with a 10-15% market share [[https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 79]]. On the 3rd of March 2026 a user reported that his Odido Zyxel EX5601-T1 router was (illegally) sending analytics data to a Turkish AI-company [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ 80]]. The user reported on the 8th of March 2026 that the router silently stopped sending this data with no formal mention/patch from Odido. The user reported on the poor security of the router and that the analytics data contained the unencrypted names of local networks, the names of devices connected to these networks, and MAC-addresses. The poor security of Odido's routers follows a massive data leak of 6.2 million customers' full legal names, phone numbers, emails, bank account numbers, passport numbers and more [[https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html 81]].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=ACM Telecommonitor derde kwartaal 2025 |url=https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Odido-router verzamelt analytics van je huishouden |url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Odido waarschuwt voor datalek: miljoenen klantgegevens gestolen bij cyberaanval |url=https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[OICA]] (European automotive lobby organisation)
|The OICA recently pushed for the right to emit sounds from quiet electric cars to make them as loud as conventional cars with combustion engine and against stricter noise regulation in cities. The fake engine noises in question are specifically not for safety purposes, but for emotional effect for the driver. However, instead of playing the noises only inside for just the driver to hear, the noise is to be played on speakers on the exterior, thus affecting the general public. Noise pollution has long been known to have adverse health effects. ''[NOTE: Similar to environmental aspects, greenwashing etc., we will have to find a good angle for how this fits the wiki. I would say it does match the general theme of manufacturers deliberately making their products worse for minor financial gain and lobbies pushing against things that are in public interest.]''
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=2026-01-07 |title=Sound Dictatorship vs. Quiet: The Battle for E-Car Roar |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260108165124/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |archive-date=8 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-01-08 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
|-
|[[Oracle]]
|Similarly to [[Tencent]], this corp is behind many other companies, so it has a lot of power over users. Also, their CEO is very petty about letting go the [[JavaScript]] trademark<ref>https://deno.com/blog/javascript-tm-gofundme</ref>
|
|-
|Pearl Abyss
|Crimson Desert engaged in hardware gatekeeping by purposely locking out support for Intel GPUs. Their response when people asked what was going on was, “Get a refund.” They failed to mention in their hardware requirements that Intel GPUs were not supported. Intel also reached out to Pearl Abyss over the course of Crimson Desert’s development to offer support but was ignored. Pearl Abyss has now backpedaled after public backlash and says they will offer Intel GPU support.
|[https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/gpus/intel-suggests-it-was-snubbed-by-crimson-desert-dev-after-reaching-out-many-times-about-arc-gpus-company-says-it-provided-early-hardware-drivers-and-engineering-resources-to-studio#:~:text=%22Over%20the%20past%20several%20years,Lake%2C%20and%20Lunar%20Lake.%22]
[https://www.neowin.net/news/crimson-desert-blocks-intel-arc-gpus-from-playing-studio-asks-owners-to-refund/#:~:text=Users%20on%20Reddit%20who%20discovered,resolution%20for%20Intel%20ARC%20owners.]
[https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/crimson-desert-doesnt-support-intel-arc-gpus-it-may-never-and-the-devs-say-get-a-refund-if-you-have-one]
[https://www.ign.com/articles/crimson-desert-doesnt-work-on-intel-gpus-but-pearl-abyss-is-working-on-it]
|-
|[[Persona]] (Age verification service)
|Used by Discord to do age verification using facial 3d scans, which are transmitted to Persona servers. It has been revealed that the company has ties to Palantir and Peter Thiel.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Lincoln |date=13 Feb 2026 |title=Oh, good: Discord's age verification rollout has ties to Palantir co-founder and panopticon architect Peter Thiel |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260221224755/https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-date=21 Feb 2026 |website=PCGamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[Proton]]
|Proton helped FBI unmask anonymous "Stop Cop City" protestor
|<ref>https://www.404media.co/proton-mail-helped-fbi-unmask-anonymous-stop-cop-city-protestor/</ref>
|-
|[[Regus]]
|A flexible office / workplace provider for freelancers, contractors, small businesses, etc.
This is specifically for their Virtual Office service. I am sure they apply these same predatory and deceptive tactics with the rest of their services as well.
Locks you into a contract for virtual services that they may terminate at any time. You can too only if you follow very specific and exaggerated terms. They will bill you for the entire agreement even with it terminated. You lose access to the services immediately upon termination but are forced to pay for the rest of the agreement. They are predatory with agreements and will not allow you to break them and will charge you for the entire thing regardless of what happens.
Forced arbitration. Force you to waive any right to class action lawsuits.
Contract comes with terms hidden in their "house rules" document, automatically opting the user into services they did not knowingly agree to, by default. These services are NOT included in the original contract in any way except through the referencing to other documents like the "Terms of Service" and "House Rules", not disclosed ahead of time. They clearly show a lower price and do not clearly show any of the additional services you unknowingly opt into.
They lead you into a low price to get the agreement signed. Once signed, you cannot escape or get out with their terms. You find out later that they've made you agree to additional services by default. They require YOU to jump through hoops to opt out of those services, and they bury the information to do it.
They have predatory auto-renewals for the contracts that are typically months to years long, with many being sold into higher 1 year+ contracts for "savings" and "discounts". These auto-renewals cannot be canceled without 3 MONTHS notice! If it renews, you are locked into another term which you will be forced to pay in full even if you terminate.
This is all for VIRTUAL office services that cost nothing to provide or remove.
A lot of deceptive patterns including, but not limited to: Comparison prevention, hidden costs, hidden subscription, obstruction.
|[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/TermsPDF/VirtualOffice/Global20250301.pdf Terms of Service]
[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/PreviewHouseRule.aspx?guidId=840179ed-c894-4e91-8ccc-3b882bcf4b38 House Rules]
[https://www.myregus.com/help#:~:text=you%20can%20give%20notice%20to%20terminate%20your%20agreement%20at%20anytime%20in%20your%20online%20account%20%2D%20but%20you%20will%20be%20charged%20until%20the%20end%20of%20your%20agreement%20term. Help Page - terminate anytime but pay everything]
|-
|[https://www.skystone.games/ Skystone Games]
|Boundary, a multiplayer online-only first-person shooter, got shut down just a year after its release by Skystone games, and its publishing rights relinquished, citing "ongoing delays and a lack of updates from the developer". Studio Surgical Scalpels (the developer) stated that the publisher decissions were "extremely sudden and unreasonable", and attempted to "regain the rights to boundary". The game has been offline for more than a year at the time of writing, and no refunds or communications to the userbase has been made by Skystone Games.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-19 |title=Boundary - End of service notice |url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |url-status=live |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=Steam |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021143111/https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-30 |title=Boundary Shut Down: Who's to Blame? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Sony]], Sony Online Entertainment/[[Daybreak Game Company]]
|Selling off SOE to the investment firm Columbus Nova, all games published by SOE were delisted without prior notice to consumers or developers, and licenses were revoked as well.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=S |first=Shawn |date=Jun 10, 2016 |title=Akimi Village |url=https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127030103/https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|website=Delisted Games}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Weber |first=Rachel |date=Feb 2, 2015 |title=SOE acquired, becomes Daybreak Game Company |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |work=GamesIndustry.biz |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204235742/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |archive-date=4 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Spectora]]
|Spectora is a home inspection software used by many home inspectors, a very important portion of the home buying process. Spectora has announced they intend to insert ads April 7th. The ads look like the home inspector (a independent entity) is recommending outside services. Spectora has also purchased other home inspection platform HomeGauge on April 4th. With Fixle being in the purchese which is the ad network they now own. There are also allegations (have not been proven) of sale of the inspection data (something that remains confidential with client controlling confidentiality) to insurance companies, and Home Lenders. Causing increased rates on historical inspection data even when those things could be a condition to close on the home.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Forced Partnership |url=https://forum.nachi.org/t/forced-partnership/266387 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Fixle by Spectora: Post-Inspection Tools for Home Buyers |url=https://www.spectora.com/fixle/?utm_campaign=41151531-2026%20Fixle%20Launch%20Campaign&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=411347418&utm_content=411347418&utm_source=hs_automation |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Spectora acquires HomeGauge |url=https://coverager.com/spectora-acquires-homegauge/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Starbucks]]
|Data Breach affecting employees March 2026
|
|-
|[[Superbox]]
|Android TV box manufacturer Superbox remotely locks consumers' devices if they were sold below the manufacturer's minimum specified prices and asks consumers to contact the retailer when they complain.
They are not the first to do something like this. [[Deye]] locked down inverters in the US that they suspected might be gray imports.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=You'll Own Nothing and Be Happy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |website=YouTube |type=Video |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Symantec]]
|Product: Norton Internet Security.
This one might be tough to document, because it's been slowly going on for the past 15 years. Norton used to offer a great internet security package with a ton of good and useful services for a decent price. Unfortunately, slowly over the years, they've gone further and further down the rabbit hole of charging more money for fewer and fewer features, and then locking some of those features behind even more paywalls and micro-transactions.
|
|-
|[[Telus]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[TCL]]
|[[wikipedia:TCL_Technology|WP]]. Misleading advertising. Software and firmware full of bugs (such as screens "randomly" turning off)<ref>https://reddit.com/r/nxtpaper/comments/1nckzv5/comment/obv34b6/</ref>. Taking years to upgrade Android phones, and lying about the expected dates. Refusing to comply with Google policies and some gov regulations
|<ref>https://www.notebookcheck.net/TCL-can-t-advertise-TVs-as-QLED-since-they-lack-in-quantum-dots-and-color-accuracy.1243552.0.html</ref><ref>https://reddit.com/r/nxtpaper/comments/1nckzv5/tcl_update_policy/</ref><ref>https://reddit.com/r/Android/comments/vvnuq6/tcl_has_been_actively_ignoring_my_firmware/</ref>
|-
|[[TriZetto]]
|Data Breach March 2026
|
|-
|[[Universal Audio]]
|Product: UAD (Volt) Audio Interfaces
Universal Audio (UAD) [[Forced account|requires users to create an account and sign in]] to their software to use their audio interfaces–this is a necessary step and without it the interfaces are unusable.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Official UAD setup guide for "Volt" audio interfaces |url=https://help.uaudio.com/hc/en-us/articles/4409233546644-How-to-set-up-your-Volt-Interface}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Review of Volt 876 audio interface by Julian Krause |url=https://youtu.be/CCnttwq9jMw?si=DcwA97e3pSfp5rlr&t=803}}</ref>
|-
|[[UP3]] By [[Jawbone]]
|Approximately 2011, Pioneering startup company from San Francisco, had revolutionary fitness trackers. In 2017 with no notice to customers they stole personal data and shut down app which in turn, bricked devices. Highly likely went bankrupt and sold to sister company to manipulate customer services and rights. Now owned by Aliph brands.
|
|-
|[[Vive]]
|In 2022, Vive discontinued the original Vive Facial Tracker module a year after the original release, then released an updated model with proprietary firmware that blocked use on other 3rd party VR headset, while only allowing the new model to work with their new locked-down headset. The 2021 version of the face tracker's long term support was seemingly cut overnight without any software updates since 2021.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vive Team |date=2022-08-07 |title=VIVE Focus 3 gets Facial Tracker, and Eye Tracker |url=https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250619155201/https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |archive-date=2025-06-19 |access-date=2025-09-21 |website=Vive Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=StateKi |date=2023-10-10 |title=Post by StatekTi on X |url=https://x.com/StatekTi/status/1733954156379963393 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/DiYbF |archive-date=9 Jan 2026 |access-date=2025-11-21 |website=X (Formerly Twitter)}}</ref>
|-
|Wheatstone Corporation
|Wheatstone Corporation are a manufacturer of professional broadcast equipment, mainly audio consoles and interfaces that utilise their proprietary Wheatnet audio over IP protocol.
Wheatstone restricts access to firmware updates, software configuration tools and software. You must open a support ticked in order for them to send you a download link to these software tools, they make it very difficult to access software required to make their hardware audio interfaces work, even stating they want proof of purchase (not just a licence key) before they will even give you the download link. Managing licences is also non-existent and you will need to contact support, and as such a fee is imposed.
|
|-
|White House
|The White House made a news app, but this app tracks your location every 4.5 minutes through third-party OneSignal
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Deep Humor |date=2026-03-30 |title=Don't Download This App |url=https://youtu.be/d5OTwcRxaTw?si=REEdhGeYPelHGLEQ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-30 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Tixon |first=Bernadette B. |date=2026-03-29 |title=White House App Found Tracking Users' Exact Location Every 4.5 Minutes via Third-Party Server |url=https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/white-house-app-gps-tracking-controversy-1788974 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[International Business Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Milden |first=Dashia |date=2026-03-30 |title=I Downloaded (and Deleted) the White House App So You Don't Have To. It's a Hot Mess |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/i-downloaded-and-deleted-the-white-house-app-so-you-dont-have-to-its-a-hot-mess/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[CNET]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-30 |title=White House app sparks concern over location tracking and privacy issues |url=https://www.tradingview.com/news/cointelegraph:565f766ef094b:0-white-house-app-sparks-concern-over-location-tracking-and-privacy-issues/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-31 |website=[[TradingView]]}}</ref>
|-
|[[WHMCS]]
|Discontinuation of support and updates for WHMCS legacy “Owned” licenses, forcing users who want ongoing updates or technical support to switch to subscription licensing and pay recurring fees rather than continue with the original owned model. This change affects all holders of legacy owned licenses and alters the long-term terms under which those licenses were originally sold
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=WHMCS Knowledgebase |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211021038/https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Important pricing changes to your WHMCS owned license Mailer |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215233549/https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Wireless Power Consortium]]
|After monopolizing wireless charging market Qi turned from an open standard into a proprietary.
Version 1.3 introduced "secure authentication between the transmitter and the receiver", i.e. in order to operate every charger must include an expensive proprietary chip licensed only to certified members. This results in increased development and manufacturing costs directly passed onto consumer. Version 2.2, unlike previous versions, "is available for WPC Members only".
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qi Certification Is Changing and We've Got You Covered |url=https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104012700/https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=NXP Semiconductors}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web |title=Download the Qi Specifications |url=https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104094044/https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=Wireless Power Consortium}}</ref>
|-
|[[Wizards of the Coast]]
|Wizards of the Coast (WotC) seems to be positioning itself to move away from publishing physical books that last forever in favor of pushing digital-only sales and micro-transactions of content and subscriptions. They attempted to amend the OGL (Open Game License) to include language that would require third party authors of D&D content to give up rights to their own content, so WotC can sell it to consumers without crediting the original authors.
Notably, as a direct response to these anti-consumer activities and policies, a select few of the third party publishers have instead decided to come out with their own systems that are not beholden to WotC's whims. A couple of examples include ''Draw Steel'' and ''Daggerheart''. An earlier conflict prompted Paizo to release their own version of the classic D20-based tabletop RPG, ''Pathfinder'', when WotC started releasing the fourth edition of it's rule-set.
|
|-
|[[Wolfgang Puck]] Bread Makers
|Some of the bread makers have anti repair screws in them to prevent people from repairing them themselves. Needs more citations.
|
|-
|[[World Orb]]
|World Network (Sam Altman/Open AI) scheme to collect biometric data on all people. Tied to cryptocurrency, AI schemes. Supposedly way for people to show they are human (run by the people who are trying to make a profit from AI).
|
|-
|[[Zhiyun]]
|Like competing products from [[DJI]], Zhiyun video gimbals require a Chinese smartphone app, internet access and an [[Forced account|account]] to activate on first use.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=ZHIYUN Tutorials |date=25 Jul 2023 |title=ZHIYUN CRANE 2S Activation Tutorial |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=YouTube}}</ref>
|}

==List of themes not yet covered==
Consumer Rights Wiki is not an encyclopedia.

*Before proposing or making a theme article, see if you can find an article that covers the topic on wikipedia, or some other reference. If you can, just use a reference to that.
*Check the list of theme articles [[:Category:common terms]], to be sure there isn't already an article on the topic, or one closely related. Sometimes a theme may be covered by generalizing an existing article.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Theme
!Summary of Theme
!Refs
|-
|Anti-rollback or ARB for device firmware
|most recent example being [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback]] but ain't exclusive to it. Also implemented by [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback#Comparison with other manufacturers|Samsung]], [https://mavicpilots.com/threads/not-be-able-to-degrade-firmfare-of-dji-mini2-from-01-06-0200.134806/#post-1518967 DJI] (link found from [[DJI]]) and likely many more.
|
|-
|Car manufacturers replacing physical controls by touch-screens
|This is increasingly common, and puts drivers at risk. Some corps pretend touchscreens are a "premium" or "modern" feature, but are typically cheaper for them
|
|-
|[[Content delivery network]] ([[CDN]])
|[[wikipedia:Content_delivery_network|WP]], see also [[Cloud (service)]]. While helpful, they can infer the browsing history of millions of users across sites. The bigger their monopoly, the more cross-site tracking power they have. Even GDPR has been against using CDNs in some situations. Examples of CDN: [[wikipedia:Amazon_CloudFront|CloudFront]] (see [[Amazon]] [[wikipedia:Amazon_Web_Services|AWS]]), [[Cloudflare]], [[Microsoft]] [[wikipedia:Microsoft_Azure|Azure]], [[wikipedia:Fastly|Fastly]], etc...
|
|-
|[[Digital lock]]
|Anything related to DRM, DMCA, etc...
|
|}

==List of companies doing the right thing==
It would be helpful to include examples of companies doing the right thing, even if they aren't, strictly speaking, consumer products.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Good deed
!Refs
|-
|APSystems
|After requests from users, the company released a firmware update that adds a local API to their EZ-1M solar micro inverter, allowing it to remain fully usable if the company ends support for the device
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=APsystems EZHI Local API User Manual |url=https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251107061040/https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2025|website=global.apsystems.com}}</ref>
|-
|Concept2
|Readily provides parts and diagrams. Exists under a [https://www.concept2.com/about/perpetual-purpose-trust Perpetual Purpose Trust].
|
|-
|Core Devices (from creator of Pebble Smartwatches)
|Not strictly Core Devices, but when Pebble was sold to Fitbit, the servers remained online for some time, and the Pebble app was updated to allow the Rebble community project to take over some of the Pebble server-side functionality. All backers of the upcoming Pebble 2 series of watches were refunded in full, despite it being a crowd-funding campaign.
Following Google's acquisition of Fitbit and after many years, Google released much of the Pebble Smart Watch source code on github (excluding proprietary libraries). Core Devices and Rebble replaced the usage of the proprietary libraries with open source alternatives, and released new Android and iOS apps, not only supporting the new core devices, but bringing updated support to legacy Pebble devices.
|
|-
|Fairphone
|The new Fairphones (5th and 6th generation) are availible with stock android as well as e/os, which is a fork of lineage os and a european alternative cloud provider (murena) instead of google. This has many privacy features (app tracker blocker, tor network usage, and gps spoofing) availible in a few clicks. Also degoogle apps (microg, safetynet, ...) are preinstalled therefore it is w´possible to install everything also from playstore with an anonymous account. As e/os is a fork of lineage os and there is an official guide to flash the fairphone with e/os and is officially supported, flashing lineage os is very easy.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-24 |title=How to manually install Android on your Fairphone |url=https://support.fairphone.com/hc/en-us/articles/18896094650513-How-to-manually-install-Android-on-your-Fairphone |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Fairphone (Gen. 6) with privacy first /e/OS |url=https://shop.fairphone.com/the-fairphone-gen-6-e-operating-system |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|Home Assistant
|Open-source smart home platform that provides local control, automation, and interoperability for a wide range of smart home devices. Provides support for many cloud devices after they're subject to [[discontinuation bricking]].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Home Assistant |url=https://www.home-assistant.io/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129222300/https://www.home-assistant.io/ |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Noctua
|Extremely long support for old products and availability of upgrade kits
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |date=19 Feb 2026 |title=The Last CPU Cooler You Will Ever Buy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|Numatic International
|A UK based manufacture of commercial and consumer wet/dry floor cleaning products (vacuums, scrubbers, floor buffers) that provides a robust library of technical documents, parts breakdowns, data sheets and training for free on both new and existing products without the need to login, pay additional fees or be an approved repair facility.
|
|-
|Oral-B
|When installing the Android App, there is no login, and the user is asked for analytics tracking consent.
|
|-
|Philips
|Added files for replacement parts to Printables so you can 3D print parts for your Philips products
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Philips |url=https://www.printables.com/@Philips |url-status=live |website=Printables}}</ref>
|-
|ratgdo
|A garage door opener controller developed by Paul Wieland, allowing you to locally control it (namely Chamberlain openers that would otherwise require the MyQ app for smart home features).
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wieland |first=Paul |title=About - ratgdo |url=https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251213022055/https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |archive-date=2025-12-13 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Reticulum
|Reticulum is an open-source, decentralized networking stack designed to communicate between practically any wireless device, even without internet. Its purpose is to provide fully anonymous end-to-end encrypted communication by default, especially in the age of government surveillance. The Reticulum network, protocol, and hardware are not tied any company in particular but were initially created by Github user 'markqvist'. Honorable mention to NomadNet, which is a network of nodes that serve webpages, similar to the internet, that communicate via Reticulum.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=markqvist |title=Reticulum Network |url=https://reticulum.network/ |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Reticulum |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222180553/https://reticulum.network/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|stevesgames.co.uk
|Will never put ads or in-app purchases in their computer games and will make gamees available for free after securing the companys future.
|
|-
|Tektronix
|Provided extensive product data on unsupported products to a museum, vintageTEK, and thus to tekwiki and the rest of the community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lenihan |first=Thomas F. |date=2012-02-28 |title=Copyright Notice |url=https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250828004431/https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |archive-date=2025-08-28 |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=vintageTEK museum}}</ref>
|-
|Ulanzi
|The company offers a tutorial on how users can mix their own fog juice to use with Ulanzi mini fog machines from readily available low-cost ingredients, whereas competitors sell proprietary fog juice at extortionate prices, refuse to release the formula and refuse to honour the warranty if users use anything but the OEM brand with their machines.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tutorial {{!}} How to DIY Ulanzi FM01 Fog Machine Juice? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM |type=Video}} ([https://preservetube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM Archived])</ref>
|-
|ZSA
|This company produces programmable ergonomic keyboards. They have 10/10 repair score by iFixit site for one of their keyboards <ref>{{Cite web |title=ErgoDox EZ Keyboard Repairability Assessment |url=https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/ErgoDox+EZ+Keyboard+Repairability+Assessment/125077}}</ref>. They also support right to repair themselves <ref>{{Cite web |title=Supporting the Right to Repair |url=https://blog.zsa.io/2105-right-to-repair/}}</ref>. They have their own web software to modify keyboard layout <ref>{{Cite web |title=Voyager default layout |url=https://configure.zsa.io/voyager/layouts/default/latest/2}}</ref>, but it's possible to download source code of your layout and compile and flash it yourself using their fork of the QMK <ref>{{Cite web |title=QMK, forked for ZSA's Oryx Configurator (to safeguard stability) |url=https://github.com/zsa/qmk_firmware/}}</ref>. The flashing can be done with standard tools, without any signing and bootloader unlocking.
|
|}

==See Also==

*[[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory]]
*[[Other Channels - Video Directory|Other Channels - Video Directory]]

==Reference List==
<references />

Avid Technology

2026-04-23T06:55:31Z

Wildwood2017: Added external hyperlinks to several areas.

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-03 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A [[wikipedia:Digital_audio_workstation|Digital Audio Workstation]] used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A [[wikipedia:Scorewriter|music notation]] and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A [[wikipedia:Non-linear_editing|non-linear editor (NLE)]] designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T23:25:43Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023) */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google [[wikipedia:Google_Gemini|Gemini]] and [[wikipedia:Vertex_AI|Vertex]] models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively)<ref>{{Cite web |date=04-03-2026 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T23:21:04Z

Wildwood2017: /* Proprietary Solutions */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively)<ref>{{Cite web |date=04-03-2026 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T23:19:39Z

Wildwood2017: /* Proprietary Solutions */ Added cite.

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=What is EUCON |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools/control-surfaces/what-is-eucon |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively)<ref>{{Cite web |date=04-03-2026 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T23:13:32Z

Wildwood2017: /* Software Product Model */ Added multiple new references, corrected some minor sections

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Pro Tools - Music Software |url=https://www.avid.com/pro-tools |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Sep 2025 |title=Software Updates + Support Plan upgrades FAQs |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/FAQ/FAQs-1-Year-Upgrade-with-Software-Updates-Support-Plan |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a custom [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2025 |title=Pro Tools Supported Audio Hardware and Control Surfaces |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/Knowledge/Pro-Tools-Supported-Audio-Hardware-and-Control-Surfaces |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 2023 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} HDX Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_HDX_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2024 |title=Pro Tools {{!}} Carbon Systems Guide |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/PT/Pro_Tools_Carbon_Systems_Guide.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Oct 2025 |title=Avid NEXIS® Setup and Licensing Quick Start Guide v2 |url=https://resources.avid.com/SupportFiles/attach/AvidNEXIS/AvidNEXIS_Licensing_QSG_V2_October2025.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Support Files}}</ref>

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=DigiLink Cables |url=https://www.avid.com/products/DigiLink-Cables |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Apr 2026 |title=Avid DNx naming scheme and data rates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/Avid-DNx-naming-scheme-and-data-rates |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref> [''Note: Download the whitepaper linked in the cite for full info on DNx'']
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, no compatibility with VST or AU plugins natively)<ref>{{Cite web |date=04-03-2026 |title=AAX (Avid Audio Extension) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Software Glossary |url=https://audiodramaproduction.com/audio-software-glossary/aax-avid-audio-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=AudioDramaProduction.com}}</ref>

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.<ref name=":0" />

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Sibelius - Notation Software |url=https://www.avid.com/sibelius |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=Media Composer - Professional Video Editing Software |url=https://www.avid.com/media-composer |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=VENUE {{!}} S6L |url=https://www.avid.com/products/venue-s6l-system |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Apr 2026 |title=MediaCentral {{!}} Media Workflow Mangement Software |url=https://www.avid.com/products/mediacentral |url-status=live |access-date=22 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T18:07:29Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026) */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a [[Software as a service|SaaS]] cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, superseded the proprietary RTAS (Realtime AudioSuite) and TDM (Time-division multiplexing) formats)

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T17:16:54Z

Wildwood2017: /* Pro Tools Systems */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Proprietary Solutions===

*'''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)
*'''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])
*'''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)
*'''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, superseded the proprietary RTAS (Realtime AudioSuite) and TDM (Time-division multiplexing) formats)

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX Core
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T15:53:43Z

Wildwood2017: /* Hardware Restrictions */ Added details on proprietary technology, added all MediaCentral solutions

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

=== Proprietary Solutions ===

* '''DigiLink Mini''' (HD/HDX Family digital interface connector)
* '''EUCON [Extended User Control]''' (Closed system of software and hardware integration, 3rd parties may integrate EUCON components into their applications but Avid manufactures the hardware and software control is one sided [EUCON controls software, but software cannot])
* '''Avid DNx codec [formerly DNxHD and DNxHR]''' (Lossy post-production codec used for multi-gen video compositing with reduced storage and bandwidth limits; tailored for the pro video space in cinematography and broadcast)
* '''AAX Plugin Format [Avid Audio eXtention]''' (Exclusive plugin container format for Pro Tools and Media Composer, superseded the proprietary RTAS (Realtime AudioSuite) and TDM (Time-division multiplexing) formats)

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*Software Solutions
**Maestro - Real-time graphic control, design, and playout for live and studio broadcasts
**Avid | Stream IO - Scalable, software-based ingest and playout for SDI and IP solutions
**MC | Stream - Ingest and playout solution designed for IP integration with the MediaCentral family
**MC | Aquire - Dedicated ingest control and management solution
**MC | Publisher - Dedicated publishing solution for digital platforms
**MC | Newsroom Management - Dedicated newsroom computer system (NRCS) for managing all production stages
**MC | Production Management - Management software for automation, permission security, media control, and collaboration across productions teams
**Wolftech News - Toolset for production planning, resource management, and process streamlining for time-sensitive productions

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T15:12:39Z

Wildwood2017: /* Media Composer Systems */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-22T15:12:14Z

Wildwood2017: /* Media Composer */

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) designed for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-21T17:05:24Z

Wildwood2017: /* Hardware Restrictions */ Added specifics for hardware limits

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent [[wikipedia:Private_equity|private equity]] group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, HD Native and legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties. For MTRX devices, full compatibility with all Pro Tools tiers is possible but requires the Thunderbolt I/O card to be installed at a separate cost. Carbon Family devices require Pro Tools Studio or higher and operates on a proprietary [[wikipedia:Audio_Video_Bridging|Audio Video Bridge]] implementation.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-20T17:48:09Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026) */ ditto last edit

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production. Additionally, generative tools included in the integration may bring the criticism and risks associated with generative tools in mass media production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, Carbon Family, legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-20T17:43:05Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026) */ Added a new concern to the active incident

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}

'''Avid Technology Inc.''' is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

==Consumer impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-6 year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Avid divests London Sibelius branch and replaces original development team (July 2012)===
Following losses in profit margins in 2012, Avid divested off parts of its consumer audio branches and closed the Sibelius' London office and laid off the original development team. This prompted users to create the "Save Our Sibelius" campaign which was a petition for Avid to sell off Sibelius to another company amid concerns of the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schofield |first=Jack |date=8 Aug 2012 |title=Users petition Avid to sell Sibelius music software arm |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/users-petition-avid-to-sell-sibelius-music-software-arm/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=ZDNet}}</ref> Following the layoff, Avid hired a completely new development team based in Canada and Ukraine.

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>

===Avid Partners with Google Cloud to bring Agentic AI to Media Production (April 2026)===
Avid Technology has announced a partnership with Google Cloud in a multi-year contract to bring Google Gemini and Vertex models into an integrated workflow with Media Composer and Avid Content Core, a SaaS cloud service for media asset management.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2026 |title=Avid and Google Cloud Announce Partnership to Bring Agentic AI to Media Production |url=https://www.avid.com/press-room/2026/04/avid-and-google-bring-agentic-ai-to-media-production |url-status=live |access-date=19 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>

This poses the danger that raw audio and video material of actors and documentary interview subjects, including moments before and after a take, off-the-record statements, and raw non-anonymized recordings of interviewees who speak on the conditon of anonymity for safety reasons, such as whistleblowers, are automatically sent to Google servers without their consent.

With direct integration into Media Composer, concerns that Gemini may be able to automate editing tasks previously done by manual review questions whether this partnership may replace video editors operating at any level of production.

==Policies==
Avid has enacted several anti-consumer policies which are explained in more detail here:

===Software Product Model===
All Avid Software Products are using a subscription-based or a perpetual + support plan model. Those which have expired support plans for perpetual users cannot upgrade their software version past bug fix releases for their current given year and major release. Renewal contracts for perpetual users are usually fixed in 1-3 year renewals, requiring constant purchasing unless the user lapses every few years.

===Avid Advantage Support System===
Avid's support system is complex and not all support options are available for all users. This table defines the support system and hierarchy.

Purchase of a Pro Tools Artist or Studio license, Media Composer Standard license, or Sibelius Artist and Ultimate license includes the Standard tier of support while there is an active Subscription or Software + Support Plan contract. Purchase of a Pro Tools Ultimate, Media Composer Ultimate license, or Avid NEXIS storage solution includes the ExpertPlus tier of support with an active plan. Purchase of a VENUE S6L system includes a 3-yr initial term for an Elite tier of support, with options for continuing support contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Jun 2024 |title=Avid Advantage Support Plans |url=https://www.avid.com/support/avid-advantage-support-plans |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Sep 2025 |title=Venue S6L Avid Advantage Elite Supoort |url=https://www.avid.com/support/venue-s6l-avid-advantage-elite-support |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid.com}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Support Tier:
!No Plan/Expired Plan
!Standard
!ExpertPlus
!Elite
|-
|Availiability
|N/A
|24x7
|24x7
|24x7
|-
|Online Case Creation
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Priority Phone Support
|No
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Case Response Time
|N/A
|24-48 hrs
|4 hrs
|1 hr
|-
|Software Upgrades
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Critical Escalation
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|OnCue Incident Mangement
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Proactive Project Assessment
|N/A
|No
|Yes
|Yes
|-
|Extended Hardware Coverage
|N/A
|Add-on
|Add-on
|Yes
|-
|For-fee Options
|ASC Only
|ASC, Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage
|Advance
Exchange
Hardware Coverage,
Onsite Support
|Onsite Support,
Dedicated Support
Expert, Avid Service
Account Manager
|-
|Self-Help Options
|Avid Knowledge Base,
Avid Forums
(Digidesign User Community,
Avid Video Community,
Sibelius Community)
|All
|All
|All
|}

===Hardware Restrictions===
Use of Avid's HDX series of hardware (HDX Core, MTRX Family, Carbon Family, legacy HD Devices) all require a Pro Tools Ultimate license to be able to interface with the hardware and a complete system requires at least one HDX Core card and one HD audio interface to be installed and connected. The interfaces use a proprietary connector called DigiLink Mini that can only link with Avid designed hardware or licensed hardware from 3rd parties.

Avid's NEXIS media storage and editing pool solution requires a license to function and integrate with Avid's software products. NEXIS solutions with an F-series component require either a perpetual modular engine license or subscription capacity license, whereas NEXIS | SDA+ solutions require a standard or advanced subscription capacity license. E-series component licensing is deterministic based on capacity needs and system configuration.

===Strict End of Life Policy===
Avid designed hardware falls under a fairly strict End of Sale and End of Life policy where a hardware unit will become fully obsolete within 5-6 years of the products End of Sale date. Once a product has become End of Life, it no longer receives any technical support, hardware coverage, or software/firmware updates on official support channels. The hardware may still function, but the user is responsible for further maintenance and resources are limited to the forums and knowledge base. This is not entirely a bad policy per se, however certain Avid products that do not perform well may end up with a short End of Sale date, effectively killing off official support for the product within 5 years or less. Avid NEXIS storage solutions are unique and are intended to be replaced every 5-6 years with support dropping after 5 years of active use or 6 years since purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Apr 2026 |title=Avid End of Life Dates |url=https://kb.avid.com/pkb/articles/en_US/Knowledge/End-of-support-dates |url-status=live |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=Avid Knowledge Base}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

=====Pro Tools Systems=====

*Hardware
**Pro Tools HDX
**Pro Tools | MTRX II
**Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
**Pro Tools | Sync X
**Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Pro Tools Tiers
**Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
**Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
**Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
**Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

=====Sibelius Systems=====

*Sibelius Tiers
**Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
**Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
**Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

====Media Composer Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS
*EUCON Control Surfaces
**Dock
**S1
**S4
**S6
*Media Composer Tiers
**MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
**MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
**MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
**MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

===VENUE===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

=====VENUE Systems=====

*VENUE Configurations
**Control Surfaces
***S6L-48D
***S6L-32D
***S6L-24D
***S6L-24C
***S6L-16C
**DSP Engines
***E6LX-256
***E6L-192
***E6LX-176
***E6L-144
***E6LX-128
***E6L-112
**I/O Racks
***STAGE 64
***STAGE 48
***STAGE 32
***STAGE 16
***LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining script-writing, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

====MediaCentral Systems====

*Hardware
**Avid NEXIS

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-19T22:26:19Z

Wildwood2017: /* Incidents */ New active incident, will update as industry response follows.

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T16:24:17Z

Wildwood2017: /* Media Composer Systems */

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T16:20:00Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Advantage Support System */

User:Wildwood2017

2026-04-17T16:13:28Z

Wildwood2017: Updated desc.

Hi, I'm wildwood2017.

I'm a self-trained music producer and tech enthusiast who's looking to make the most out of the gear already owned.

The article on [[Avid Technology]] is important since this documents the issues with Avid, the industry titan in the pro audio and video space, and helps to bring awareness to their business model and organization as a company.

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T06:33:08Z

Wildwood2017: /* Consumer impact summary */

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T06:31:13Z

Wildwood2017: /* MediaCentral */

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T06:29:35Z

Wildwood2017: /* Policies */ Added new section: End of Life Policy

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T06:14:13Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid Advantage Support System */ Added cite for Venue support plans

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T06:09:17Z

Wildwood2017: /* Hardware Restrictions */ Added more details regarding Avid NEXIS

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T05:58:42Z

Wildwood2017: Added major section: Policies dictating the anti-consumer policies of Avid explained in more detail.

Avid Technology

2026-04-17T05:17:13Z

Wildwood2017: Added the 2012 Sibelius incident

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T21:52:08Z

Wildwood2017: Added details about Avid products

{{Incomplete}}

Avid Technology Inc. is a US-based multimedia and technology company located in Massachusetts formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Controversies==

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=9 Nov 2024 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Engadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of [https://https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_Technology_Group STG (Symphony Technology Group)] for 1.4 billion dollars on November 7, 2023 in a cash-only deal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Nov 2023 |title=STG Completes Acquisition of Avid Technology |url=https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260307073724/https://stg.com/news/stg-completes-acquisition-of-avid-technology/ |archive-date=7 Mar 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=STG}}</ref> This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avid Technology (AVID) - Stock split history |url=https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260416175443/https://companiesmarketcap.com/avid-technology/stock-splits/ |archive-date=16 Apr 2026 |access-date=16 Apr 2026 |website=CompaniesMarketCap.com |quote=This company appears to have been delisted Reason: Acquired by Private Equity Firm STG Last recorded trade on: January 9, 2024}}</ref> Subsequently, some of Avid's product development has been moved to STG Labs, the primary engineering office for STG in India, alongside other portfolio companies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About STG Labs |url=https://stg.com/stg-labs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-04-16}}</ref>
==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

===== Pro Tools Systems =====

* Hardware
** Pro Tools HDX
** Pro Tools | MTRX II
** Pro Tools | MTRX Studio
** Pro Tools | Sync X
** Pro Tools | Carbon and Carbon Pre
* EUCON Control Surfaces
** Dock
** S1
** S4
** S6
* Pro Tools Tiers
** Pro Tools Intro - Free, feature limited software for demoing the core capabilities of Pro Tools
** Pro Tools Artist - Entry-level tier that offers most tools and features for small to medium scale creators
** Pro Tools Studio - Advanced tier that provides advanced tools for bigger creators and studios; support for some of Avid's higher tier hardware solutions
** Pro Tools Ultimate - Full feature set for creatives and installations that require the most compatibility and support for all of Avid's hardware solutions

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

===== Sibelius Systems =====

* Sibelius Tiers
** Sibelius First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Sibelius
** Sibelius Artist - Entry-level tier that offers the core tools for small to medium composers
** Sibelius Ultimate - Full feature set for larger scale composers and those working for film scoring

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

==== Media Composer Systems ====

* Hardware
** Avid NEXIS
* Media Composer Tiers
** MC First - Free, feature limited tier for demoing the core features of Media Composer
** MC Standard - Standard set of tools that covers most independent and indie-scale video production
** MC Ultimate - Full toolset with support for remote integrations and team collaborations across a small team
** MC Enterprise - Full toolset with advanced integrations, collaboration, and roles that can manage an entire campus of editors

=== VENUE ===
Modular system designed for live sound and touring productions with advanced integration with Pro Tools systems.

===== VENUE Systems =====

* VENUE Configurations
** Control Surfaces
*** S6L-48D
*** S6L-32D
*** S6L-24D
*** S6L-24C
*** S6L-16C
** DSP Engines
*** E6LX-256
*** E6L-192
*** E6LX-176
*** E6L-144
*** E6LX-128
*** E6L-112
** I/O Racks
*** STAGE 64
*** STAGE 48
*** STAGE 32
*** STAGE 16
*** LOCAL 16

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining scriptwriting, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T20:57:56Z

Wildwood2017: Added source for outsourced engineering for Avid.

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T20:34:20Z

Wildwood2017: Added state of origin

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T15:32:26Z

Wildwood2017: /* Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022) */

{{StubNotice}}

Avid Technology Inc. is an American-based multimedia and technology company formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Controversies==

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in April of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=29 Jun 2025 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Endgadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of STG for 1.4 billion dollars in a cash-only deal. This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity. Subsequently, some of Avid's product development was outsourced to STG asset offices in India.

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining scriptwriting, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T15:16:32Z

Wildwood2017:

{{StubNotice}}

Avid Technology Inc. is an American-based multimedia and technology company formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Controversies==

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (April 2022)===
Avid in July of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=29 Jun 2025 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Endgadget}}</ref>

===Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023)===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of STG for 1.4 billion dollars in a cash-only deal. This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity. Subsequently, some of Avid's product development was outsourced to STG asset offices in India.

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining scriptwriting, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T06:31:56Z

Wildwood2017: ditto last

{{StubNotice}}

Avid Technology Inc. is an American-based multimedia and technology company formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Controversies==

===Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (July 2022)===
Avid in July of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=29 Jun 2025 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Endgadget}}</ref>

=== Avid is Acquired by an Affiliate of STG for USD $1.4B (Nov 2023) ===
Avid Technology was acquired by an affiliate of STG for 1.4 billion dollars in a cash-only deal. This delisted Avid from the NYSE and returned its status as a private entity. Subsequently, some of Avid's product development was outsourced to STG asset offices in India.

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining scriptwriting, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T06:26:05Z

Wildwood2017: Added first controversy and reference

{{StubNotice}}

Avid Technology Inc. is an American-based multimedia and technology company formed in 1987 that specializes in providing solutions for the professional audio, video, and media markets.

Avid Technology is owned by the parent private equity group Symphony Technology Group (STG) as of 2023.

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Avid Technology has implemented several policies that negatively impact their customers:

*All Avid software solutions run on a Subscription or Perpetual + Support Plan model; Software + Support Plans typically only offer 1-3 years of support before needing to be purchased again.
*Requiring customers to purchase an Avid Support Code (ASC) or be under an active product Subscription or Software Updates + Support Plan to receive direct ticketing support using Avid's helpdesk. Phone support is only offered on an ASC code usage or a higher Support Plan.
*Usage of Avid designed hardware require the use of an "advanced" tier of their software products in order to provide full functionality and/or control.
*Avid designed hardware have a fixed 5-year term for hardware and software support when the product reaches its declared End of Sale date. After that point, all support for the product will cease officially.

==Controversies==

=== Avid removes Perpetual Plan options for Pro Tools users (July 2022) ===
Avid in July of 2022 removed the option for customers to buy new or Software Updates + Support Plan contracts for existing perpetual Pro Tools users. Following considerable industry backlash, Avid reinstated Perpetual licenses and Support Plan contract renewals through authorized 3rd party resellers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=27 April 2022 |title=Pro Tools is now only available as a subscription service |url=https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109140342/https://www.engadget.com/pro-tools-subscription-service-perpetual-license-160010247.html |archive-date=29 Jun 2025 |access-date=29 Jun 2025 |website=Endgadget}}</ref>

==Products==

===Pro Tools===
A Digital Audio Workstation used by many studios and installations for music composition, recording, music production, and video post-production.

===Sibelius===
A music notation and engraving software used by score composers for general and film scoring.

===Media Composer===
A non-linear editor (NLE) for post-production video work for TV and film workflows.

===MediaCentral===
A suite of unified tools for newsroom events and live broadcast productions combining scriptwriting, automation, ingest, delivery, and collaboration in a single package.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Technology companies]]

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T06:11:18Z

Wildwood2017: Added category

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T06:09:11Z

Wildwood2017: First stage edit

Avid Technology

2026-04-16T05:32:42Z

Wildwood2017: New company

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1987-08
|Industry=Audio, Music, Video
|Logo=Pure Purple AVID Logo.svg.png
|ParentCompany=Symphony Technology Group
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.avid.com
|Description=Multimedia company specializing in providing industry tools for pro audio, video, and media workflows.
}}
{{Ph-C-Int}}

==Consumer-impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}

==Incidents==
{{Ph-C-Inc}}

This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].
===Example incident one (''date'')===
{{Main|link to the main CR Wiki article}}
Short summary of the incident (could be the same as the summary preceding the article).
===Example incident two (''date'')===
...

==Products==
{{Ph-C-P}}

==See also==
{{Ph-C-SA}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

File:Pure Purple AVID Logo.png

2026-04-16T05:30:27Z

Wildwood2017: Avid Technology Inc logo, source: Wikipedia.

== Summary ==
Avid Technology Inc logo, source: Wikipedia.
== Licensing ==
{{From Wikimedia}}

User:Wildwood2017

2026-02-19T23:32:03Z

Wildwood2017: Created page with "Hi, I'm wildwood2017. Just an average music producer and tech enthusiast who's looking to make the most out of the gear already owned."

Hi, I'm wildwood2017.

Just an average music producer and tech enthusiast who's looking to make the most out of the gear already owned.

HP Laptop Subscription

2026-02-19T23:19:30Z

Wildwood2017: /* Other Concerns */ more info on the HP Go 5G service

'''HP Laptop Subscription''' is a laptop subscription service by [[HP Inc.|HP]] which takes device ownership out of the consumer's hands and forces the consumer to be locked into HP's terms, notable ones included here:

#'''Ownership''': The consumer will never, in any capacity, own the laptop they receive with the subscription. If the consumer cancels their subscription, they must return the laptop alongside any additional peripherals bought in the deal.
#'''Commitment Period''': If the consumer retains their subscription after the 30-day trial period, the consumer is locked into a 1-year commitment term with their plan of choice. If the consumer decides to cancel early after the trial period, then the remaining balance for the rest of the year must be paid in full.
#'''Limits on Sharing:''' The consumer is allocated one device per person, per account, per household. This means that multiple subscriptions cannot be used to fulfill multiple user's needs, only one laptop is allocated.
#'''Remote Lockdown:''' If the consumer fails to pay the monthly fee or violates HP's terms of the subscription, then HP retains the right to use their Absolute<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=29 May 2024 |title=HP Absolute Security |url=https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetPDF.aspx/4AA2-1087ENW.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Workforce Solutions Datasheet}}</ref> remote security software to remote access, lockdown, restrict, or otherwise inhibit or block HP provided services or functions.
#'''No Tampering/Removal of HP Software:''' The consumer cannot tamper with, attempt to, or remove the services pre-installed on their HP laptop, especially concerning their Absolute security software. Violation may result in the subscription being cancelled/denied, further payment being demanded, and/or legal action under the [https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/1030 Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030)].

==Features==

*Choice of a popular HP or OMEN Gaming Laptop (variable pricing based on model)
*Dedicated 24/7 Pro live phone support with an HP Agent
*Continuous warranty service
*Next-day shipping replacement for repairs/issues unresolvable over the phone
*Option to keep or upgrade to a new model every year (if available)

==Pricing==

*Laptops (HP Branded)
**$19.99/month - HP 15"<ref group="note"> Only specified on the TOS sheet, or out of stock. </ref>
**$34.99/month - HP Pavilion 16"
**$44.99/month - HP Envy 17"
**$54.99/month - HP Spectre x360 14"<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
**$54.99/month - HP OmniBook X Flip 14"
**$84.99/month - HP EliteBook 6 G1q 14"
*Laptops (OMEN Branded)
**$49.99/month - Victus 15"
**$69.99/month - OMEN 16"
**$79.99/month - OMEN 17"
**$129.99/month - OMEN MAX 16"
*Optional Peripherals (HP Branded)
**$1.99/month - HP Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
**$3.99/month - HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub
**$6.99/month - HP Series 5 27" FHD White Monitor
**$9.99/month - HP Smart Tank Plus 651<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
*Optional Peripherals (OMEN/HyperX Branded)
**$3.99/month - HyperX Cloud III Headset
**$6.99month - HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Headset
**$7.99/month - HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Headset
**$4.99/month - HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Pro Mouse
**$5.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 Microphone
**$7.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 S Microphone
**$5.99/month - OMEN 24" Monitor
**$9.99/month - OMEN 27" G2 Monitor
**$4.79/month - HyperX Alloy Origins 65 Keyboard

==Other Concerns==

*HP Elitebook has built-in 5G eSim cellular with data provided through the subscription, HP could have remote access in areas with no WiFi
**Use of the HP Go 5G service is limited to on-device usage; consumers cannot use tethering, mobile plan sharing + hotspot, and direct 3rd party service use
**HP Go 5G service and data plan may be terminated without notice if HP believes that the consumer has violated the terms of the Go service
**5G data use falls under a strict throttling system as follows:
***Data Cap per Month: 5GB
***Over 5GB --> 5 Mbps
***Over 10GB --> 2 Mbps
***Over 25GB --> 1 Mbps
***Over 100GB --> 100 Kbps
*HP may use tracking or targeted marketing with the device since the household sharing restriction tracks the device IP address and geographical location
*HP services could force the device to auto-update to the latest software, whether the consumer wants it or not
*HP ID Account required to log in and sign up for the subscription and use the HP services on the device
*Extra peripherals (mouse + keyboard, dock, display) bought in the deal cannot be owned and must be returned with the laptop if the subscription is canceled; additional monthly cost, no option for a one-time purchase
*Data retrieval for a locked down laptop must be done over support, and is at the discretion of the support techs and your subscription status
*No/limited support for laptops with modifications or any other product not in-line with your subscription, and additional fees may be due if HP claims that technical support was "made difficult"<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=10 Nov 2025 |title=If Support Services are made more difficult because of such ineligible components or products, we will charge You for the extra work at our standard service rates |url=https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Laptop Subscription - Terms of Services}}</ref> due to these modifications

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
*5G connectivity on supported devices is provided under the HP Go 5G Connectivity service.
*Soft credit check required to determine eligibility.

==See also==

*HP Website: [https://hplaptopsubscription.hp.com/?jumpid=ma_globalnav_sub_mkt_laptop#faq HP Laptop Subscription]
*HP Laptop Subscription: [https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 Terms of Services (US Only Pilot Edition)]
*HP OMEN Laptop Subscription: [https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_12770288-12770336-16 Terms of Services]
*HP Datasheet: [https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/getpdf.aspx/4AA8-5152ENW.pdf HP Go 5G Service Sheet]
*Linus Tech Tips: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4e-Kt02rfc&t=534s HP has Subscription Laptops Now]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:HP Inc.]]

HP Laptop Subscription

2026-02-19T23:12:25Z

Wildwood2017: /* Other Concerns */

'''HP Laptop Subscription''' is a laptop subscription service by [[HP Inc.|HP]] which takes device ownership out of the consumer's hands and forces the consumer to be locked into HP's terms, notable ones included here:

#'''Ownership''': The consumer will never, in any capacity, own the laptop they receive with the subscription. If the consumer cancels their subscription, they must return the laptop alongside any additional peripherals bought in the deal.
#'''Commitment Period''': If the consumer retains their subscription after the 30-day trial period, the consumer is locked into a 1-year commitment term with their plan of choice. If the consumer decides to cancel early after the trial period, then the remaining balance for the rest of the year must be paid in full.
#'''Limits on Sharing:''' The consumer is allocated one device per person, per account, per household. This means that multiple subscriptions cannot be used to fulfill multiple user's needs, only one laptop is allocated.
#'''Remote Lockdown:''' If the consumer fails to pay the monthly fee or violates HP's terms of the subscription, then HP retains the right to use their Absolute<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=29 May 2024 |title=HP Absolute Security |url=https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetPDF.aspx/4AA2-1087ENW.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Workforce Solutions Datasheet}}</ref> remote security software to remote access, lockdown, restrict, or otherwise inhibit or block HP provided services or functions.
#'''No Tampering/Removal of HP Software:''' The consumer cannot tamper with, attempt to, or remove the services pre-installed on their HP laptop, especially concerning their Absolute security software. Violation may result in the subscription being cancelled/denied, further payment being demanded, and/or legal action under the [https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/1030 Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030)].

==Features==

*Choice of a popular HP or OMEN Gaming Laptop (variable pricing based on model)
*Dedicated 24/7 Pro live phone support with an HP Agent
*Continuous warranty service
*Next-day shipping replacement for repairs/issues unresolvable over the phone
*Option to keep or upgrade to a new model every year (if available)

==Pricing==

*Laptops (HP Branded)
**$19.99/month - HP 15"<ref group="note"> Only specified on the TOS sheet, or out of stock. </ref>
**$34.99/month - HP Pavilion 16"
**$44.99/month - HP Envy 17"
**$54.99/month - HP Spectre x360 14"<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
**$54.99/month - HP OmniBook X Flip 14"
**$84.99/month - HP EliteBook 6 G1q 14"
*Laptops (OMEN Branded)
**$49.99/month - Victus 15"
**$69.99/month - OMEN 16"
**$79.99/month - OMEN 17"
**$129.99/month - OMEN MAX 16"
*Optional Peripherals (HP Branded)
**$1.99/month - HP Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
**$3.99/month - HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub
**$6.99/month - HP Series 5 27" FHD White Monitor
**$9.99/month - HP Smart Tank Plus 651<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
*Optional Peripherals (OMEN/HyperX Branded)
**$3.99/month - HyperX Cloud III Headset
**$6.99month - HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Headset
**$7.99/month - HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Headset
**$4.99/month - HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Pro Mouse
**$5.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 Microphone
**$7.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 S Microphone
**$5.99/month - OMEN 24" Monitor
**$9.99/month - OMEN 27" G2 Monitor
**$4.79/month - HyperX Alloy Origins 65 Keyboard

==Other Concerns==

*HP Elitebook has built-in 5G eSim cellular with data provided through the subscription, HP could have remote access in areas with no WiFi
**Use of the HP Go 5G service is limited to on-device usage; consumers cannot use tethering, mobile plan sharing, and direct 3rd party service use
*HP may use tracking or targeted marketing with the device since the household sharing restriction tracks the device IP address and geographical location
*HP services could force the device to auto-update to the latest software, whether the consumer wants it or not
*HP ID Account required to log in and sign up for the subscription and use the HP services on the device
*Extra peripherals (mouse + keyboard, dock, display) bought in the deal cannot be owned and must be returned with the laptop if the subscription is canceled; additional monthly cost, no option for a one-time purchase
*Data retrieval for a locked down laptop must be done over support, and is at the discretion of the support techs and your subscription status
*No/limited support for laptops with modifications or any other product not in-line with your subscription, and additional fees may be due if HP claims that technical support was "made difficult"<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=10 Nov 2025 |title=If Support Services are made more difficult because of such ineligible components or products, we will charge You for the extra work at our standard service rates |url=https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Laptop Subscription - Terms of Services}}</ref> due to these modifications

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
*5G connectivity on supported devices is provided under the HP Go 5G Connectivity service.
*Soft credit check required to determine eligibility.

==See also==

*HP Website: [https://hplaptopsubscription.hp.com/?jumpid=ma_globalnav_sub_mkt_laptop#faq HP Laptop Subscription]
*HP Laptop Subscription: [https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 Terms of Services (US Only Pilot Edition)]
*HP OMEN Laptop Subscription: [https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_12770288-12770336-16 Terms of Services]
*HP Datasheet: [https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/getpdf.aspx/4AA8-5152ENW.pdf HP Go 5G Service Sheet]
*Linus Tech Tips: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4e-Kt02rfc&t=534s HP has Subscription Laptops Now]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:HP Inc.]]

HP Laptop Subscription

2026-02-19T22:53:13Z

Wildwood2017: Updated details to include the HP OMEN subscription details and added more content

'''HP Laptop Subscription''' is a laptop subscription service by [[HP Inc.|HP]] which takes device ownership out of the consumer's hands and forces the consumer to be locked into HP's terms, notable ones included here:

#'''Ownership''': The consumer will never, in any capacity, own the laptop they receive with the subscription. If the consumer cancels their subscription, they must return the laptop alongside any additional peripherals bought in the deal.
#'''Commitment Period''': If the consumer retains their subscription after the 30-day trial period, the consumer is locked into a 1-year commitment term with their plan of choice. If the consumer decides to cancel early after the trial period, then the remaining balance for the rest of the year must be paid in full.
#'''Limits on Sharing:''' The consumer is allocated one device per person, per account, per household. This means that multiple subscriptions cannot be used to fulfill multiple user's needs, only one laptop is allocated.
#'''Remote Lockdown:''' If the consumer fails to pay the monthly fee or violates HP's terms of the subscription, then HP retains the right to use their Absolute<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=29 May 2024 |title=HP Absolute Security |url=https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetPDF.aspx/4AA2-1087ENW.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Workforce Solutions Datasheet}}</ref> remote security software to remote access, lockdown, restrict, or otherwise inhibit or block HP provided services or functions.
#'''No Tampering/Removal of HP Software:''' The consumer cannot tamper with, attempt to, or remove the services pre-installed on their HP laptop, especially concerning their Absolute security software. Violation may result in the subscription being cancelled/denied, further payment being demanded, and/or legal action under the [https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/1030 Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030)].

==Features==

*Choice of a popular HP or OMEN Gaming Laptop (variable pricing based on model)
*Dedicated 24/7 Pro live phone support with an HP Agent
*Continuous warranty service
*Next-day shipping replacement for repairs/issues unresolvable over the phone
*Option to keep or upgrade to a new model every year (if available)

==Pricing==

*Laptops (HP Branded)
**$19.99/month - HP 15"<ref group="note"> Only specified on the TOS sheet, or out of stock. </ref>
**$34.99/month - HP Pavilion 16"
**$44.99/month - HP Envy 17"
**$54.99/month - HP Spectre x360 14"<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
**$54.99/month - HP OmniBook X Flip 14"
**$84.99/month - HP EliteBook 6 G1q 14"
*Laptops (OMEN Branded)
**$49.99/month - Victus 15"
**$69.99/month - OMEN 16"
**$79.99/month - OMEN 17"
**$129.99/month - OMEN MAX 16"
*Optional Peripherals (HP Branded)
**$1.99/month - HP Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
**$3.99/month - HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub
**$6.99/month - HP Series 5 27" FHD White Monitor
**$9.99/month - HP Smart Tank Plus 651<ref group="note"> Ditto note 1. </ref>
*Optional Peripherals (OMEN/HyperX Branded)
**$3.99/month - HyperX Cloud III Headset
**$6.99month - HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Headset
**$7.99/month - HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Headset
**$4.99/month - HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Pro Mouse
**$5.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 Microphone
**$7.99/month - HyperX QuadCast 2 S Microphone
**$5.99/month - OMEN 24" Monitor
**$9.99/month - OMEN 27" G2 Monitor
**$4.79/month - HyperX Alloy Origins 65 Keyboard

==Other Concerns==

*HP Elitebook has built-in 5G eSim cellular with data provided through the subscription, HP could have remote access in areas with no WiFi
*HP services could force the device to auto-update to the latest software, whether the consumer wants it or not
*HP ID Account required to log in and sign up for the subscription and use the HP services on the device
*Extra peripherals (mouse + keyboard, dock, display) bought in the deal cannot be owned and must be returned with the laptop if the subscription is canceled; additional monthly cost, no option for a one-time purchase
*Data retrieval for a locked down laptop must be done over support, and is at the discretion of the support techs and your subscription status
*No/limited support for laptops with modifications or any other product not in-line with your subscription, and additional fees may be due if HP claims that technical support was "made difficult"<ref>{{Cite web |last=HP Development Company LP |date=10 Nov 2025 |title=If Support Services are made more difficult because of such ineligible components or products, we will charge You for the extra work at our standard service rates |url=https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 |url-status=live |access-date=19 Feb 2026 |website=HP Laptop Subscription - Terms of Services}}</ref> due to these modifications

==Notes==
<references group="note" />
*5G connectivity on supported devices is provided under the HP Go 5G Connectivity service.
*Soft credit check required to determine eligibility.

==See also==

*HP Website: [https://hplaptopsubscription.hp.com/?jumpid=ma_globalnav_sub_mkt_laptop#faq HP Laptop Subscription]
*HP Laptop Subscription: [https://www.hp.com/us-en/laptops/subscription-terms.html#section=tos-11 Terms of Services (US Only Pilot Edition)]
*HP OMEN Laptop Subscription: [https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_12770288-12770336-16 Terms of Services]
*HP Datasheet: [https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/getpdf.aspx/4AA8-5152ENW.pdf HP Go 5G Service Sheet]
*Linus Tech Tips: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4e-Kt02rfc&t=534s HP has Subscription Laptops Now]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:HP Inc.]]