If someone could look inside all the computers installed in Europe and make a list of the most installed programs, WinRAR would probably be in the top positions. Its own creators boast of having 500 million users worldwide, although it is true that its golden age is over; in its day, WinRAR was one of those essential programs installed when starting a new computer. There is also an official version of WinRAR for Android with over 100 million downloads.
WinRAR is a program for compressed files, specifically in its own format, called RAR; although it is also compatible with others such as ZIP. The key to WinRAR’s success was its monetization system, which was weird at the time but is used by many mobile apps today. WinRAR was not free, although it was freely downloadable and free to install; After 40 days, a window will appear asking the user to purchase an original license. Currently, this license costs 29.95 dollars
The reality, let’s face it, is that nobody paid. It was not necessary, because by simply closing the window, it was possible to continue using the program to unzip any file. And yet, the company lives on and it is still possible to download and use WinRAR without paying; the big question is whether it will still be like this in a few months.
WinRAR is in danger
The reaction of the official WinRAR account on Twitter says it all: the situation is delicate for the small developer. And all because of a novelty in Windows 11 that has been celebrated by users but which could have serious consequences, not only for WinRAR but also for other similar applications: compatibility with RAR files. In effect, Windows will be able to open RAR files without the need to install anything, the same way it is already able to do with ZIP files. Windows will natively process the files and allow you to extract them directly from File Explorer.
After celebrating it, the reaction of many users on social media was to wonder what will happen with WinRAR now that the only reason for its existence seems to have disappeared. The company itself seems aware that these may be its last days. WinRAR sales representative confirmed Neowin that they are worried about this decision by Microsoft, a company much larger than theirs; even if he does not give up optimism, saying that this change, in addition to the challenges, will also bring “benefits” for his company, without explaining them.
We right now. #Windows11 pic.twitter.com/t8WnXaWyZa
—WinRAR (@WinRAR_RARLAB) May 30, 2023
To explain why WinRAR was able to survive this frontal attack from Microsoft, one must understand how the company actually survived by giving away its program. In effect, that WinRAR could be used for free was not a bug
WinRAR got where it is thanks to the massive licenses for enterprises, in addition to the advanced support which provides. The paid version of WinRAR also provides access to more advanced features which may be worthwhile for some users.
It is therefore perfectly possible that WinRAR will still be around in 28 years, especially if the RAR implementation in Windows 11 is not so complete; for example, Microsoft has not yet confirmed whether it will be possible to create compressed files in this format, or whether it will only be able to decompress them.
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