What's the story behind the 'Upgrade to Subscriptions' file in the Windows 10 Anniversary Update?

5 months ago

Windows 10 preview build users have spotted a mysterious file with the programs folders that appears to suggest subscriptions will be part of the software’s future set-up.

A program called UpgradeSubscription was found buried in the system folders of one build, sparking fears that Microsoft could make users pay some sort of subscription.

It’s a concern that has popped up in rumours before, with some fearing Microsoft will eventually move to a system of charging consumers to access certain features.

Microsoft has moved quickly to deny this, telling ZDNet: “The Windows Upgrade to Subscription tool, found in the latest Windows Insider builds, helps to manage certain volume licensing upgrades from Windows 10 Pro Anniversary Update to Windows 10 Enterprise.

“This binary file is not associated with the free consumer upgrade offering nor is it applicable to consumer Windows editions.”

A firm denial and explanation, and one that would make sense as there are subscriptions and more fees around the business versions of the software.

Further digging by ZDNet drew several other references to the program, but nothing that contradicted Microsoft’s explanation, or suggested that consumers would have to start paying out for future versions of Windows.

The Anniversary Update – the first major Windows 10 upgrade since it launched last year – is out next month.