Adobe Creative Cloud’s licensing structure can be complex, especially with the significant changes rolling out in 2025. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about CC licensing policies, from plan comparisons to version support and end-of-life schedules.
Understanding Adobe Creative Cloud: Core Concepts
Adobe Creative Cloud (CC) is Adobe’s subscription-based creative software suite. Moving away from the perpetual license model of Creative Suite (CS), CC operates on monthly or annual subscriptions.
With access to 20+ professional applications including Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, plus cloud storage, fonts, and templates, CC serves creative professionals worldwide. As of 2025, Adobe organizes licenses into three main categories: Individual, Teams, and Enterprise.
For official information, visit the Adobe Creative Cloud homepage.
1. Plan Comparison: Individual, Teams, and Enterprise
Adobe Creative Cloud offers three primary plans based on organization size and requirements.
Individual Plan
Designed for independent creators and freelancers. Starting August 2025, the “All Apps” plan was renamed Creative Cloud Pro.
Key Features:
- Access to 20+ Adobe apps
- 100GB cloud storage
- Adobe Fonts and Adobe Stock templates
- Install on up to 2 computers (1 active at a time)
- Monthly generative credits
2025 Changes:
- North America: Price increase effective June 17, 2025
- Other regions: Price increase effective August 1, 2025
- Single App plans: New subscribers receive 25 generative credits (reduced)
Learn more at Adobe Individual Plan Changes.
Teams Plan
Optimized for small businesses and design studios.
Key Features:
- All Individual plan features included
- 1TB cloud storage per user
- Centralized license management via Adobe Admin Console
- 180-day version history
- Company-owned libraries for shared assets
- 24/7 technical support and 1:1 expert sessions
- Unlimited job postings on Behance via Adobe Talent
2025 Teams Changes:
- “All Apps for Teams” → Creative Cloud Pro for Teams
- “Pro Edition” → Creative Cloud Pro Plus for Teams
- North America: June 17, 2025 (new pricing)
- Other regions: August 1, 2025 (new pricing)
- VIP customers: July 1 (North America), September 1 (other regions)
Details at Teams Plan Changes.
Enterprise Plan
The premium option for large organizations.
Key Features:
- All Teams plan features included
- Long Term Support (LTS) versions
- Advanced security features and SSO support
- Feature Restricted Licensing (FRL) options
- Dedicated technical support and consulting
- Advanced deployment options (packages, RUM, AUSST)
For more information, visit Adobe Enterprise.
2. Understanding Version Support: N, N-1, and LTS
Adobe maintains a clear version support structure. Here’s what you need to know.
Version Numbering System
Adobe uses an N.m.p format:
- N = Major version
- m = Minor version
- p = Patch version
For example, Photoshop 25.12.0:
- Major version: 25
- Minor version: 12
- Patch version: 0
Support Level Breakdown
| Version | Description | Support Included | Available To |
|---|---|---|---|
| N (Current) | Latest major release | Feature updates, bug fixes, security updates, OS compatibility, technical support | All plans |
| N-1 (Previous) | One major version behind | Security updates, limited technical support | All plans |
| LTS (Long Term Support) | Enterprise long-term version | Security updates for up to 1 year | Enterprise (Photoshop LTS available for Teams/Individual) |
| N-2 and older | Two or more versions behind | No support (download unavailable) | Not supported |
Critical Note: Versions N-3 and older are no longer available for download. If you need to maintain older versions, you must keep local installers.
Official support policy: Adobe CC Support Policy.
3. Long Term Support (LTS) Versions
LTS versions are specially designated releases for Enterprise customers, announced annually around November. Each LTS version receives security updates for up to one year.
Current LTS Versions (October 2025)
| Application | LTS Version | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| After Effects | 24.6 | Video compositing and motion graphics |
| Animate | 23.0.2 | Animation creation |
| Audition | 24.6 | Audio editing |
| Bridge | 14.1.3 | Digital asset management |
| Character Animator | 24.6 | Character animation |
| Illustrator | 28.7.2 | Vector graphics design |
| InCopy | 19.5 | Editorial collaboration |
| InDesign | 19.5 | Page layout and publishing |
| InDesign Server | 16.4 | Server-based publishing |
| Lightroom Classic | 13.5.1 | Photo editing and management |
| Media Encoder | 24.6 | Media transcoding |
| Photoshop | 25.12 | Image editing (LTS available for Teams/Individual) |
| Premiere Pro | 24.6 | Video editing |
Apps without LTS:
- Lightroom (cloud version)
- Adobe Fresco
- Adobe XD (maintenance mode – effectively discontinued)
- Premiere Rush (discontinued September 30, 2025)
- Dimension
- Substance 3D apps
Important: The next LTS versions are expected to be announced in November 2025, typically around Adobe MAX. When new LTS versions are designated, previous LTS versions complete their one-year security update period.
LTS versions are clearly marked in the Creative Cloud Desktop app (Enterprise accounts) under “All apps” > Versions section.
Latest LTS information: Adobe LTS Documentation.
4. End-of-Life and Discontinued Products
Understanding which products and services have reached end-of-life helps with planning and migration strategies.
2025 End-of-Life Schedule
| Product/Service | EOL Date | Status | Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Premiere Rush | September 30, 2025 | Discontinued | Premiere on iPhone (Android in development) |
| Creative Cloud Synced Files | February 3, 2025 | Service ended | Frame.io, AEM Assets, or third-party cloud storage |
| Acrobat 2020 Perpetual | June 2025 | Support ended | Acrobat Pro subscription |
| VIP (Commercial) | May 31, 2025 | Program ended | VIP Marketplace |
| CLP | February 2025 | Program ended | VIP Marketplace |
| TLP | May 2025 | Program ended | VIP Marketplace |
Previously Discontinued Products (Reference)
| Product/Service | EOL Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adobe Flash Player | December 31, 2020 | Execution blocked January 12, 2021 |
| Adobe Photoshop Mix | June 2024 | Replaced by Photoshop for Mobile |
| Adobe Muse | March 26, 2020 | Website builder |
| Adobe Encore | May 2019 | DVD/Blu-ray authoring |
| Adobe Fireworks | 2013 (downloads until May 2019) | Web graphics editor |
| Adobe SpeedGrade | August 22, 2017 | Integrated into Premiere Pro Lumetri |
| Adobe Story | Discontinued | Screenwriting tool |
| Acrobat 2017 Classic | June 6, 2022 | Support ended |
| Acrobat X (10.x) | November 15, 2015 | Support ended |
Adobe XD Status
Adobe XD is in maintenance mode. As of April 2025, there’s no official discontinuation announcement, but new feature development has ceased. For new projects, consider alternatives.
Alternatives:
- Adobe web/mobile design: Adobe Express
- Third-party tools: Figma, Sketch, Affinity Designer
Creative Suite (CS) Perpetual License Support
| Version | Support Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CS6 | Limited support ended | Only Gold Support contracts before June 2014 valid. Technical support ended May 31, 2017 |
| CS5.5 | Support ended | Only Gold Support contracts before January 2014 valid |
| CS5 | Support ended | Only Gold Support contracts before January 2014 valid |
| CS4 and earlier | Completely unsupported | Downloads discontinued |
Note: Perpetual license holders can continue using their software as long as technically feasible, but no security updates or technical support are available.
Official support timeline: Adobe EOL Matrix.
5. Volume Licensing: VIP and VIP Marketplace
For organizations purchasing multiple licenses, Adobe offers volume licensing programs.
VIP (Value Incentive Plan)
Critical: Commercial VIP Program Ended May 31, 2025
- December 2, 2024: New VIP contract creation ceased
- January 31, 2025: Final date for VIP add-ons and renewals
- May 31, 2025: Complete commercial VIP termination
- February 2025: CLP (Cumulative Licensing Plan) ended
- May 2025: TLP (Transactional Licensing Plan) ended
VIP Marketplace (Current Standard)
The replacement for VIP, providing streamlined volume licensing.
Key Features:
- No minimum purchase quantity
- Volume discounts starting at 10 licenses
- 3-Year Commit option for deeper discounts
- Named User Licensing support
- Shared Device Licensing for education
- Centralized management via Adobe Admin Console
- Auto-renewal with Anniversary Date alignment
Discount Tiers:
- 10+ licenses: Level 1 discount
- 50+ licenses: Level 2 discount
- 100+ licenses: Level 3 discount
- 3-Year Commit: Additional discounts applied
Learn more: VIP Marketplace Guide.
6. Acrobat-Specific Support Policy
Acrobat follows a different support structure from Creative Cloud apps.
Acrobat Release Tracks
Acrobat operates on two distinct tracks:
| Track | Description | Update Cycle | Target Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuous Track | Continuous update version | Quarterly feature updates | Users needing latest features |
| Classic Track | Long-term support version | Annual major updates | Stability-focused organizations |
Acrobat Version End-of-Life Schedule
| Version | Release Date | End of Support | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrobat 2024 | 2024 | Expected 2029 | Supported |
| Acrobat 2020 Perpetual | 2020 | June 2025 | Ending soon |
| Acrobat 2017 Classic | 2017 | June 6, 2022 | Ended |
| Acrobat DC (Continuous) | 2015~ | Ongoing with active subscription | Supported |
Acrobat Perpetual License Sales Ended
Critical Changes:
- July 15, 2024: Acrobat 2020 perpetual license sales ended via TLP/CLP
- No new perpetual license versions after Acrobat 2020
- Existing purchasers can continue using but without support
Currently Available Acrobat Licenses:
- Acrobat Pro (Subscription): Full features + cloud services + AI Assistant
- Acrobat Standard (Subscription): Core PDF functionality
- Acrobat Pro 2024 (Term License): 3-year term license (Enterprise, VIP Marketplace)
Details: Acrobat Support Policy.
7. OS and Browser Support Policy
Operating System Support
Adobe supports the current version and two previous major versions.
2025 Creative Cloud App Supported OS:
Windows:
- Windows 11: 23H2, 22H2, 21H2
- Windows 10: 22H2, 21H2
- Note: LTSB branches not supported
- Windows 10 Microsoft support ends October 14, 2025
macOS:
- macOS 14 (Sonoma)
- macOS 13 (Ventura)
- macOS 12 (Monterey)
With Windows 10’s end of support approaching, Adobe will likely require Windows 11 for future updates. Organizations should plan OS upgrades accordingly.
Browser Support
Adobe web services support the latest version only of:
- Google Chrome
- Safari
- Microsoft Edge
- Firefox
Complete system requirements: Creative Cloud System Requirements.
8. Creative Cloud 2025 Version Information
The Creative Cloud 2025 release was announced at Adobe MAX in October 2024, with most major versions (N) being 2025 or 26.
Major App Version Status (October 2025)
| Application | Current Version (N) | Previous Version (N-1) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photoshop | 2025 (26.x) | 2024 (25.x) | Major AI enhancements |
| Illustrator | 2025 (29.x) | 2024 (28.x) | Generative AI vector tools |
| Premiere Pro | 2025 (25.x) | 2024 (24.x) | AI video editing features |
| After Effects | 2025 (25.x) | 2024 (24.x) | 3D engine improvements |
| InDesign | 2025 (20.x) | 2024 (19.x) | AI layout suggestions |
| Lightroom Classic | 2025 (14.x) | 2024 (13.x) | Enhanced AI masking |
| Audition | 2025 (25.x) | 2024 (24.x) | AI audio restoration |
| Animate | 2025 (24.x) | 2024 (23.x) | Web animation enhancements |
| Bridge | 2025 (15.x) | 2024 (14.x) | Improved metadata management |
Important:
- Creative Cloud 2025 requires macOS 12 (Monterey) or later
- macOS 11 (Big Sur) no longer supported
- Windows requires Windows 10 22H2+ or Windows 11
Version Naming Convention
Since 2025, Adobe continues year-based naming while incrementing internal version numbers:
- Photoshop 2025 = Version 26.x
- Illustrator 2025 = Version 29.x
Marketing name (2025) differs from technical version number (26.x).
9. 2025 Key Policy Changes Timeline
Critical dates for 2025 that impact licensing and support:
| Date | Event | Affected Users |
|---|---|---|
| February 3, 2025 | Creative Cloud Synced Files service ended | Personal users |
| Late February 2025 | CLP licensing program ended | All markets |
| May 31, 2025 | Commercial VIP program ended, TLP program ended | Commercial customers |
| June 17, 2025 | North America Individual/Teams price increase begins | North America customers |
| July 1, 2025 | North America VIP customer price increase begins | North America VIP customers |
| August 1, 2025 | Other regions Individual/Teams price increase begins, Plan renamed to Creative Cloud Pro | Global customers |
| September 1, 2025 | Other regions VIP customer price increase begins | Global VIP customers |
| September 30, 2025 | Adobe Premiere Rush discontinued | Premiere Rush users |
| October 14, 2025 | Windows 10 Microsoft support ends (Adobe support likely to follow) | Windows 10 users |
| November 2025 | Next LTS version announcement expected | Enterprise customers |
Post-2025 Expected Changes:
- Gradual Windows 10 support phase-out
- Creative Cloud 2026 release (expected October 2025 at Adobe MAX)
10. Practical License Management Tips
Real-world advice for managing Adobe licenses effectively.
Named User vs Device Licensing
Named User License (Default):
- Assigned to individuals
- Install on up to 2 devices, 1 active simultaneously
- Internet connection required (authentication)
- Full cloud service access
Shared Device License (Education Only):
- For shared computer labs
- Available to education institutions via VIP
- Requires admin deployment
Using Older Versions
- N-2 and older versions unavailable for download: Keep local installers if needed
- No security updates increases security risks
- Potential OS compatibility issues
- No Adobe technical support available
- Commercial use allowed but at your own risk
License Migration
Individual → Teams Upgrade:
- Free migration within 30 days if purchased from Adobe.com
- After 30 days: 50% early termination fee on remaining contract
- Reseller purchases: contact vendor directly
Contract Checkpoints:
- Verify Anniversary Date (renewal date)
- Check auto-renewal settings
- VIP customers: contact reseller or Account Manager
License Compliance
Critical Points:
- Adobe may conduct periodic license audits
- Regularly monitor actual usage in Admin Console
- Immediately reclaim licenses from departing employees
- Valid licenses required for commercial use
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can Individual plans use LTS versions?
A. Photoshop LTS is available for Individual/Teams plans. Other app LTS versions are Enterprise-only.
Q2. What happens to my files if I cancel my subscription?
A. Apps become unusable upon subscription cancellation, but cloud-stored files remain accessible in limited capacity. Locally saved files remain fully owned by you.
Q3. Must I migrate from VIP to VIP Marketplace?
A. Yes, for commercial customers. After May 31, 2025, commercial VIP transactions are impossible. Education institutions may have separate timelines—consult your reseller.
Q4. What about using cracked versions?
A. Cracked versions are illegal and not recommended. They can cause licensing issues with legitimate installations and carry legal consequences.
Q5. When Windows 10 support ends, will apps stop working?
A. Currently installed apps will continue functioning, but future updates will likely require Windows 11. Plan OS upgrades in advance.
Q6. When updating to Creative Cloud 2025, is the 2024 version removed?
A. By default, previous versions are automatically removed. To keep older versions, disable “Remove previous versions” in Creative Cloud Desktop app Preferences > Apps.
Q7. Can’t I download N-2 or older versions?
A. Adobe doesn’t provide downloads for N-2 and older. Keep local installers if needed. Enterprise customers can access more versions by enabling “Available application versions” in Admin Console.
Q8. What happened to my files after Creative Cloud Synced Files ended?
A. Files in your local Creative Cloud Files folder remain intact. However, cloud sync is disabled, so migrate to Frame.io, Google Drive, Dropbox, or other cloud storage.
Q9. Can I keep using Adobe XD?
A. Adobe XD remains in maintenance mode—receiving security updates but no new features. Existing projects can continue, but consider alternatives like Figma or Adobe Express for new projects.
Q10. Should I choose LTS or the latest version?
A. For Enterprise environments prioritizing stability and needing extended testing periods, choose LTS. For latest features or individual/small teams, use the current version (N).
Conclusion and summary~
Adobe Creative Cloud’s licensing policies are complex, but understanding them enables optimal decisions for your situation. 2025 brings significant changes, so bookmark this guide for future reference.
Key Takeaways:
- Individual Plan: Best for independent creators and freelancers
- Teams Plan: Optimal for small teams and SMBs (centralized management + collaboration)
- Enterprise Plan: For large organizations (LTS + advanced security + SSO)
- LTS Versions: Stability for Enterprise customers (announced each November)
- Supported Versions: N (current), N-1 (previous), LTS only / N-2 and older unavailable for download
- VIP Marketplace: The only commercial volume licensing method after May 2025
2025 Critical Issues:
- Commercial VIP ended → VIP Marketplace migration required (May 31)
- Prepare for Windows 10 support end (October 14)
- Premiere Rush discontinued (September 30)
- Creative Cloud Pro plan renaming and price increases
Choose Individual for personal work, Teams for collaborative environments with centralized management needs, and Enterprise for large organizations leveraging LTS. If maintaining older versions, backup installers before N-2. VIP customers must complete VIP Marketplace migration before May 31.
Key Reference Links:
- Adobe Creative Cloud Homepage
- Adobe Support Policy
- Adobe EOL Matrix
- VIP Marketplace Guide
- Creative Cloud System Requirements
- Adobe Admin Console
- Acrobat Support Policy
- Discontinued Products Information