freemium

[ free-mee-uhm ]

noun

1. a sales strategy, especially on the internet, in which the basic product or service is free, but customers are charged for additional features and content.
2. such a product or service.

adjective

1. of or relating to a freemium:

   freemium games for smartphones.

Word History and Origins

Origin of freemium¹

First recorded in 2005–10; blend of free and premium

Example Sentences

First, the consumer service is designed as a freemium offering, while businesses provide a more steady and guaranteed revenue stream.

From TechCrunch

Authorities could look more closely at the “freemium” business model of tech firms to determine whether giving away a product for free may produce other negative consequences, such as reducing quality or innovation.

From Fortune

Fortunately, there are many online infographic tools like Canva and Piktochart that enable you to create beautiful infographics at a freemium price.

From Search Engine Watch

The app will be funded on a “freemium” model, with basic free accounts, while users can also upgrade their subscription for more services.

From Fortune

Today, many games in this same space use a freemium model where the app download itself is free, but you’re then nagged with in-app hooks to buy coins or tokens to advance gameplay or unlock certain features.

From TechCrunch