Logitech's 'Forever Mouse' Subscription Fails to Impress

Logitech's New CEO Proposes 'Forever Mouse' with Subscription Model

Logitech's new CEO, Hanneke Faber, has introduced a groundbreaking concept: the "forever mouse." This premium, luxury mouse would receive regular updates through a monthly subscription fee, aiming to redefine how we think about hardware in the gaming and PC industry. Below, we explore her vision and the reactions from the gaming community.

Logitech 'Forever Mouse' Part of Broader Subscription Trend, and Gamers Find It Ridiculous

In a recent interview with The Verge's Decoder podcast, CEO Hanneke Faber shared her vision for the "forever mouse." She likened it to a Rolex watch, emphasizing its potential for longevity and continuous improvement through software updates. "Imagine it's like your Rolex. You're going to really love that," Faber stated, highlighting the idea of a mouse that remains useful indefinitely.

Faber acknowledged that while technology evolves, the hardware itself might not need frequent changes. "Our stuff will have to change, but does the hardware have to change? I'm not so sure," she remarked. The business model for the "forever mouse" is still under consideration, but Faber is optimistic about its feasibility, stating, "We're not at the forever mouse today, but I'm intrigued by the thought."

Logitech's Forever Mouse not 'super far away' from turning into reality

The "forever mouse" concept aims to keep the mouse updated and functional indefinitely through software updates, reducing the need for frequent hardware replacements. Faber believes that Logitech is "not super far away" from realizing this vision. However, she noted that the high cost of development might necessitate a subscription model to ensure profitability.

When discussing the specifics of the subscription model, Faber confirmed it would primarily cover software updates. "Yeah, and you never have to worry about it again, which is not unlike our video conferencing services today," she explained. Additionally, Logitech is exploring other models, such as a trade-in program similar to Apple's iPhone upgrade program, where users can exchange their mouse for a newer version.

Ongoing Subscription-Based Models Trend in Gaming

Faber sees significant growth potential in the gaming sector, where high-quality, durable peripherals are crucial. "Obviously, on the gaming side, it's a really important lifestyle product, and again, it's a real growth opportunity for us for many years to come," she stated.

The "forever mouse" aligns with a broader trend towards subscription-based business models across industries, including gaming. For example, HP offers a subscription service for printing, while Xbox and Ubisoft have recently increased the prices of their gaming subscription services, Xbox Game Pass and Ubisoft+.

Fan Reactions

Screenshots taken via Twitter (X) and arstechnica forum show a wave of skepticism and humor among gamers regarding the idea of subscribing to a mouse. One user quipped, "Just surprised Ubisoft didn’t think of this first," while others shared their own creative takes on subscription models for everyday objects.