Recently we've seen that Patrick Lindecker (F6CTE), the author of the long-running MultiPSK decoding software, has updated the MultiPSK licence page to note that no more user keys will be sold from 1 January 2027, and that the software will be free of charge from then. Currently, a user key that unlocks the full version costs 35 Euros.

MultiPSK is a Windows program famously known for being able to decode a huge range of amateur radio and utility signals, including PSK31, RTTY, FT8, ACARS, AIS, POCSAG, DMR, ADS-B, and radiosondes. It is also infamously known for having what many consider an overwhelming, convoluted, and very 90s-style interface. It can connect directly to an RTL-SDR or take audio piped from any receiver, and it has been a popular choice with SDR users since the early days of the RTL-SDR. Over the years, we've posted about it being used to receive HFDL, VDL2, Orbcomm and DGPS. Until now, the free version has limited most professional modes to five minutes of decoding at a time.

Patrick does not give a reason for the licence change. However, we note that legacy software like MultiPSK is increasingly being replaced by newly developed AI-coded programs, as vibe coding with state-of-the-art AIs can produce a working decoder for most protocols in minutes. In our opinion, as AI improves, standalone pre-made programs may eventually fade away, replaced by asking an AI to create a custom decoder on demand.