If you thought that we are at a point where every company under the sun has introduced a subscription-based service, then you may not have heard of Logitech’s idea — Mouse as a service (MaaS), also called the “endless mouse”.
The idea behind endless mouse is simple: create a mouse that buyers may use forever, but link software updates to a subscription plan.
In other words, if you want to keep the software of your mouse up-to-date, you need the subscription plan. Endless mouse therefore does not only mean a mouse that you use until you die, it also means endless money in the pockets of Logitech. Brilliant!
It is arguable if software updates make or break a mouse. There is a chance that Logitech is going to design the mouse in a special way. Take a cue from HP and require Internet connection before the mouse starts working and Logitech can check that the user has a valid subscription.
It sounds like a nightmarish idea. A toned-down variant could be a replacement service. Whenever your mouse dies or misbehaves, you will get a replacement mouse immediately from Logitech.
Logitech is probably not the only company that is trying to come up with ideas to improve revenue by creating new subscription services.
ArsTechnica has the details. The endless mouse is not a product that Logitech is working on currently, but it is discussed there. Once the idea is planted, Logitech could very well test the waters. Ars speaks of a $200 mouse for enthusiasts plus subscription money. Though, the subscription could be used to subsidize the price of the mouse.
Closing Words
Mouse as a Service, or endless mouse, sounds like something that could never work. The real question here is this: what is in it for the user? What advantage does a user have when that specific mouse is bought with that subscription plan in tow?
What does it offer that justifies the price and frequent payments? It cannot just be the mouse’s hardware and technology, as other mouse manufacturers offer similar functionality. This leaves software as the only differentiating factor. Good luck with that.
Why not buy three of four mice that are good for most users and tasks, and be done with that. Sustainability may be an argument for some.
What is your take on this? Would you pay for hardware that is linked to a subscription fee?