Crossgrade

Crossgrade is a software licensing offer that allows customers to switch from a competing product to a vendor’s own software at a reduced price. The goal is to lower switching costs and attract users who would otherwise remain loyal to a rival product by recognizing ownership of the competing product rather than requiring a direct buy from the same vendor.

Eligibility and process typically require proof of ownership of the qualifying product, such as a licensed copy, serial number, or purchase receipt. Some offers are regional or restricted to certain product families or editions. To obtain a crossgrade, the customer purchases a crossgrade license and redeems it with the vendor, usually receiving a license key or activation file. Some promotions are time-limited or bundled with maintenance or support contracts.

Terms and pricing vary by vendor but commonly include perpetual or subscription-based licenses that provide similar functionality to standard licenses. Crossgrade terms may impose transfer restrictions, require ongoing maintenance, or limit usage to specific platforms or environments. While the goal is parity in features with the native product, actual rights and services can differ depending on the promotion.

Differences from an upgrade are notable: an upgrade typically applies to a prior version of the same vendor’s product, whereas a crossgrade is about switching from a rival product. Crossgrades are also distinct from downgrades or multi-product licenses, as they are designed to facilitate a brand transition rather than version changes within a single vendor’s ecosystem.

In practice, crossgrade promotions have been used in professional software markets such as graphics, audio, video, and 3D design to accelerate migration and broaden the user base. Critics point to potential confusion about eligibility, feature parity, and long-term licensing terms.