JAWS to become subscription based

News to JAWs users. From mky one of my blind cleints. He reports that JAWS is changing to a subscription model. This will take place after the 31st October this year. It will be a three figure sum for those users who want a professional version of JAWS. So if you were thinking fo changing JAWS or buying it best to do in the next few weeks!

JAWS has transitioned to a subscription-based model, alongside its sister products ZoomText and Fusion, offering flexible 1-, 2-, or 3-year terms that include software updates, security patches, and technical support. This new approach replaces the older model of purchasing one-time perpetual licenses and separate Software Maintenance Agreements (SMAs), making it simpler and often more cost-effective for users to stay up-to-date with the latest features and support. Professional Edition subscriptions also incorporate remote desktop access for Citrix/RDS environments at no extra cost.

What the change means for users:

Continuous Updates:Subscriptions provide all future software updates, security patches, and new features for the duration of the term, ensuring users are always on the latest version.
Included Support:Full technical support is bundled into the subscription, eliminating the need for separate support agreements.
Predictable Costs:The subscription model offers a lower upfront cost than traditional perpetual licenses and provides predictable, recurring expenses.
No More SMAs:The mandatory Software Maintenance Agreements (SMAs) for perpetual licenses are replaced by the subscription model, which has these benefits built-in.
Network Access (Professional Edition):Professional license subscribers gain integrated access to remote desktop environments like Citrix and RDS without additional costs.

Why the change was made:

Simplified Software Management:The subscription model simplifies the process of keeping assistive technology current and effective.
Enhanced User Experience:It ensures users receive continuous improvements, including new AI tools, OCR enhancements, and compatibility with the latest operating systems like Windows 11 and Microsoft Office.
Addresses Security Risks:Staying on the latest version, guaranteed by subscriptions, is vital for security and continued functionality.

For existing users:

It is important to ensure your software is on the latest version and to transition from an expired SMA to a subscription to maintain access to vital updates and support.

Existing users with perpetual licenses are encouraged to explore the subscription model to benefit from continuous updates and support.

This article has been generated by AI

Testimonies

“1’d like to give a shout out to Myles Pilling, BA,M.Ed. and encourage anyone who needs training and support around assistive tech to reach out to him directly. was lucky enough to have several hours of training with Myles thanks to my Access to Work grant. Myles’ training though? Well, it was closer to coaching than training. He didn’t assume. He asked me to show him what I did so he could offer refinements and tweaks.

But the most important thing Myles did was question why I was doing what I was doing; what was the benefit, why was it needed, and if it was what was the most effective way of doing it? No more ‘stick a tech plaster on a Luddite broken leg’ – instead Myles helped me work most effectively with my tech, by helping me figure out when and how I needed it. The absolute best bit? Thanks to working with Myles, I never ever need to do filing again.

Seriously. Never.

Myles helped me set up a system that I would likely never have discovered without him, that allows my work to be recorded and autosaved without a single follow up step.” Leah , Consultant , Search for Serenity

“Accessibility Smyles continues to serve up timely information about the latest and best technology for individuals with unique needs. Always pleased to receive these helpful resources with related links. I share them with parents, educators and others who serve the many with reading and learning challenges. (Thank you, Myles!)” – Jean

“I’ve known Myles for many years, he’s my go-to expert for all this Accessibility, so much so that he’s our resident expert at Anderton Tiger Radio. Whenever we feature this topic he’s always there with excellent advice and guidance, in fact you can listen to him again here from our January radio show https://www.buzzsprout.com/695014/2586430-myles-pilling-talks-about-technologies-for-send-that-have-caught-his-eye-at-bett-2020 Highly recommended, Myles is most definitely one of the top 5 experts in his field in the UK” – Russell Prue, Anderson Tiger

“After one of your recent training sessions, I visited your Techsavvy session and discovered the virtual tour guides. A a result my husband and I enjoyed a splendid trip to Edinburgh. A city I have avoided for a number of years due to its challenges for a wheelchair user due to its very steep streets and cobbles. I think the sessions you have posted are really good and I hoped you would be happy if I suggested these to clients, I am assisting in my volunteering journey. I am also liaising with a local charity who are trying to encourage their older members and I think they too could benefit from your regular hints and tips so would like to suggest they pass on the Techsavvy links. You really are an inspiration.” –

Heather Sneddon

South West Scotland Coordinator , AbilityNet