But I agree. Better to just charge for the damn thing.
Though to be fair, I've got an iOS app with the exact same business model, so I'm biased. :)
You're kidding right? It doesn't mention the price anywhere on the site (but it does say "Download for free at the app store" front and center). In any other business that'd be considered a bait and switch.
There is a vague mention of the premium version in a single paragraph. Elsewhere they appear to go way out of their way not to mention it:
Developers can download various Linux distributions from Veertu Cloud Image Library and run VMs in few minutes, for no charge. Alternatively, they can also setup Windows VMs with ISO files. Windows 7 and higher version are supported. Users can also import existing VM images from VirtualBox, Fusion and Parallels.
That's weasel wording, plain and simple.
I agree though, it's better than a subscription pricing model. But to be honest I have no real quarrel with the model itself anyways - I just think they should be up front about the offer.
There's nothing wrong with this business model by the way. It just want to know upfront what I'm getting (or not getting).
The paid version lets you use your own Linux/Windows ISO and/or import a VMWare/Parallels/VirtualBox VM.
This is basically how they can offer a "free trial" on the app store.
I'm either an idiot or there is no obvious way to find out how the free version is crippled (without downloading and playing around with it). Nothing on the App store listing and nothing even on their website (!)
I'm so sick of these scummy tricks. Just be upfront with your value proposition and I'll either give you my money or I won't. Don't waste my time.