Software Using Machine-Specific Activation

While most software that requires a serial number merely asks you to enter that serial number – which it then records in a preference file, a hidden file, or somewhere within the application package – some software actually “activates” according to information on the Mac you are using it on. One common example of activation is the iTunes Store, for purchases that use DRM, or Audible.com. With the iTunes Store, you can only activate up to five computers. So if you plan to sell or give away a Mac, you must remember to deactivate it before doing so, or you may have problems with iTunes content.

Having just gotten a new Mac – my Mac mini – I installed Mac OS X on the mini and moved all my existing files and applications over from the Mac Pro. I initially forgot to deactivate iTunes, so I had to reconnect the Mac Pro to my network, monitor, mouse and keyborad to do so. But as I have opened some applications on the Mac mini, I’ve found some that use activation as well. I find this a disturbing trend, and one that developers should avoid. Yes, it helps ensure that software is not installed on multiple computers, but it penalizes most honest users as well. I had no idea that, for example, CoverScout used activation (or, more correctly, I forgot). I can’t keep a list of the programs that use this type of system for when I move to a new Mac. I’m not going to start up the Mac Pro again just to deactivate this program – I was able to activate it on the new Mac mini, but I’m sure there is a limit to the number of times I can do that. What this means is that I’ll have to contact the company’s support eventually in order to have all my licenses deactivated. This is a real pain, and makes no sense to users, who simply can’t be bothered with remembering this kind of system for each of the many applications they use.

Experiencing this now makes me realize that this annoyance is worth noting when I review software in the future, and I’ll make sure to mention it as a negative point for the software in question.