Broadcom says complaints about VMware rising prices, subscriptions are unfair
VMware customers are still unhappy
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Ever since Broadcom finalized its acquisition of VMware late in 2023, the virtualization company has undergone some pretty seismic shifts and controversial changes, including the termination of perpetual licenses.
Complaints about the rising costs associated with being a VMware customer or partner under Broadcom’s leadership have been widespread, even prompting calls for regulatory intervention regarding the company’s decision to move to a subscription-only model.
Previously acknowledging customer concerns, Broadcom is now asserting that complaints about its changes have been unfair.
Broadcom defends its VMware changes… again
In an interview withThe Register, Sylvain Cazard, president of Broadcom Software for Asia-Pacific, said that the complaints had been unwarranted because customers using two or more components of VMware’s flagship Cloud Foundation will end up paying less. Cazard also noted that the new pricing includes support.
Despite Broadcom’s efforts to address widespread concerns, industry groups representing European companies have urged regulatory action against Broadcom’s alleged unfair practices and changes.
In a jointletterto European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Vice President Margrethe Vestager, and European Commissioner Thierry Breton, Beltug, Le Cigref, CIO Platform Nederland, and VOICE e.V. expressed several concerns.
The organizations opposed “steeply increased prices, non-fulfilment of previous contractual agreements, disallowing reselling of licenses, refusing to maintain security conditions for perpetual licenses, (re)bundling of licenses, leading to higher costs, a shakeup of the ecosystem of VMware resellers and partners, and a loss of knowledge.”
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
The letter asks for the Commission’s perspective and guidance on “what courses of action are open.”
Regardless of efforts by Cazard,Prashanth Shenoy, orCEO Hock Tanto tame customer dissatisfaction, many have already been left to reassess their place as a VMware customer or partner.
TechRadar Proinvited Broadcom to share further comments about the widespread disgruntlement and the latest letter addressed to the European Commission, but the company did not immediately respond.
More from TechRadar Pro
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
Turns out most of us really don’t mind data centers
How Agentic AI will revolutionize business operations – are you ready?
The iPhone 18 series could include a variable aperture, ‘significantly enhancing’ the camera
