nagware

Persistent upgrade prompts

Nagware is software that repeatedly prompts users to register, upgrade, or pay for a full version.

The term captures how these persistent reminders nag at you like an insistent person: The free version is nagware—it asks you to upgrade every time you open it.

Common with shareware and trial versions, nagware remains functional but deliberately annoying until you comply.

annoyance

pestering

Persistent unwanted attention

grating · tedious · aggravating · exasperating · frustrating · irksome · obnoxious · relentless · badgering · hectoring

trialware

freeware

Complimentary computer programs

time-sensitive · crippleware · freemium · trial period · unregistered · lite version · restricted · preview · beta

prompts

pop-up

Appearing suddenly, briefly

prompt · reminder · message · modal · splash screen · banner · toast · overlay · interstitial · countdown

licensing

registration

Formal recording of participation

purchase · subscription · unlock · keygen · crack · piracy · compliance · validation · authentication · product key

Opposites
software licensing/distribution model

nagwarefreeware

Complimentary computer programs

open-source software · free software · abandonware · crippleware

Family

nag, nagging, software, nagged, nags, adware, shareware, scareware

Familiarity
Top 1,000,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Negative · Rated G