AMD pulls a bait-and-switch on Linux users with Vivado licensing changes

AMD is restricting Linux support for its Vivado FPGA design suite to paid tiers starting with the 2026.1 release, moving from a free Standard Edition to a tiered model where the free Basic tier only supports Windows, while Linux access requires the paid Core tier ($1,200-$1,800 annually). The company has faced backlash from Linux users—including students, researchers, and hobbyists—for what many view as a bait-and-switch tactic, with AMD's forum moderator offering vague justifications and suggesting users simply stick with the older 2025.2 version rather than addressing community concerns.