: You can still build, compile, and distribute apps using those older versions forever without paying another cent.
: Only one specific platform (macOS, Windows, or Linux). Activations : Limited to 1 machine . xojo license
Choosing the right is a critical step for developers looking to move from local experimentation to distributing professional-grade software. Unlike many modern software-as-a-service (SaaS) models, Xojo uses a "perpetual use" license that allows you to continue using what you’ve paid for even after your update period ends. : You can still build, compile, and distribute
At its core, the Xojo license is built upon a tiered, feature-based model designed to accommodate everyone from the high school student writing their first calculator app to the enterprise team building a multi-user database front-end. The entry point is the . Historically, Xojo has offered a remarkably generous free tier, allowing users to build and run native desktop applications locally without cost. The primary restriction, however, is the inability to build standalone compiled applications for distribution. This creates a "try before you buy" ecosystem that lowers the barrier to learning. For educators and hobbyists, this is invaluable; it allows a user to master the language and IDE (Integrated Development Environment) without financial risk. Yet, this freedom comes with a watermark of limitation: the code cannot leave the developer’s machine without a paid upgrade. Choosing the right is a critical step for
: All licenses allow you to run the IDE on macOS, Windows, or Linux to write your code.
The architecture of the Xojo license is defined by a tiered system that segments the market based on target platform, creating a "pay-as-you-grow" barrier. This tiered approach is distinct from many modern competitors who offer a single price for access to all build targets. In the Xojo ecosystem, a developer typically must purchase specific licenses depending on whether they are building a desktop application, a console utility, a web application, or a mobile app for iOS. For a freelancer who needs to build a simple desktop tool for a client, the entry cost is relatively low. However, for a consultancy aiming to deliver a cross-platform solution that includes a web dashboard and a mobile companion app, the licensing costs can quickly accumulate. This structure forces developers to make strategic decisions early in the project lifecycle regarding where their software will live.