10 Most Expensive Software in the World
Software is essentially data that runs computers and other types of hardware. Without it, these devices would never function and eventually end up as useless piles of hot garbage. Technological advancements have made the software much more complex than it already is. And naturally, despite the multi-functionality as well as the eradication of complicated software bugs, these complex software can be very expensive. So, here are the 10 most expensive software ever released:
1. AutoCAD – $9,500
AutoCAD is the most expensive computer-aided design (CAD) software around. CAD allows users to create objects, animations, and designs in 2D and 3D. Numerous companies have developed CAD software over the years, such as Adobe (Illustrator), Trimble Navigation (SketchUp), and Dassault Systemes (SolidWorks), but no CAD provider has gained more prominence than the makers of AutoCAD: Autodesk.
AutoCAD is considered to be the number one CAD software in the world. It was released in 1982 and became the first CAD software to run on personal computers. Key features include surface analysis, 3D associate array, refined interface, ribbon galleries, and reality computing. AutoCAD also now comes with a mobile and cloud-based feature.
2. AUTODESK MAYA – $11,000
Autodesk Maya is a professional 3D modeling, animation, simulation, and rendering software widely used in film, gaming, and visual effects industries. It offers powerful tools for creating realistic characters, environments, and animations with advanced features for motion graphics and rendering.
3. Adobe Acrobat Capture – $20,000
Released in 1996, three years after the first Acrobat was released, the Acrobat Capture allows users to convert any document into a PDF file through OCR technology. The third iteration of the Acrobat Capture continues to be the most expensive software Adobe has ever released, but it would be discontinued in 2010 as cheaper alternatives were sold in the market. Dozens of free alternatives can now be found online.
4. CORE IMPACT PRO – $50,000
CORE Impact Pro is a comprehensive penetration testing software that helps security professionals assess vulnerabilities in networks, endpoints, web applications, and wireless environments. It offers automated testing, reporting, and validation of exploits, enhancing overall cybersecurity resilience.
5. Softimage Face Robot – $95,000
Softimage Face Robot is another software developed by Autodesk. It is used to create 3D graphics for a wide array of mediums, most especially video games and movies. Even with its hefty price tag, Softimage’s industry-leading ultra-realistic 3D animation software has become a top preference for media enterprises and advertising companies around the globe.
6. VxWorks RTOS – $199,000
A real-time operating system (RTOS) is still mainly an operating system, but its main function is to process all types of information instantaneously: zero delays and zero errors. This type of OS is mostly used in industries where safety and security are given top priority, such as aerospace and defense, medicine, telecommunications, robotics, transportation, and consumer electronics. Additionally, software mistakes in RTOS are oftentimes completely eradicated.
Among the more notable RTOS include Windows Embedded Compact, RTLinux, LynxOS, and Blackberry QNX. But when it comes to the most expensive RTOS, no one even comes to Wind River Systems VxWorks. Initially released in 1987, VyWorks was a key component in the development of numerous technological innovations over the years, including the ASIMO robot, the NASA Juno space probe, the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and the Boeing 787, among others. VxWorks is based on Ada, C, C++, and Java, and consists of a multi-tasking kernel, error handling framework, and dual-mode IPV6 networking stack functionalities.
7. Source Engine – $200,000
"Source" is a software dedicated to creating 3D graphics in video games. It is developed by video game company Valve and created through C++ . Highly-popular games such as Counter-Strike: Source, Half-Life 2, and Left 4 Dead are using the Source game engine. In 2015, Valve announced the successor of Source called Source 2 and will use a new physics engine as well as obtain support for the Vulak graphical API.
8. RenderWare – $250,000
Although it has been discontinued, it doesn’t change the fact that RenderWare was one of the most expensive software projects ever released. Slightly more expensive than Source, RenderWare was another software that specializes in creating 3D graphics for video games. This 3D API and graphics rendering engine from game developer Criterion Software was used in games developed for the Sony (Playstations 2 to 4), Microsoft (Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One), and Nintendo (Gamecube and Wii) consoles. It also ran on Windows and the Apple Mac OS.
9. UNREAL ENGINE – $750,000
Unreal Engine is a powerful 3D creation platform used for game development, real-time simulations, and interactive experiences. It offers high-quality graphics, extensive tools for developers, and supports various platforms, from PC and consoles to VR and mobile devices.
10. CryEngine 3 – $1.2 million
The most expensive software list wraps up with the most expensive software ever developed. CryEngine 3 is a third version of the CryEngine game engine developed by German video game developed Crytek. Its main features include a LUA Script Driven AI System, “Uber Shader” technology, deferred lighting, and color grading. Futuristic first-person shooting game Crysis 2 debuted the CryEngine back in October 2009. The Australian Defense Force also used the game engine to train Navy personnel on virtually land a helicopter on a dock landing ship. CryEngine was licensed to Amazon in 2015 for around $70 million.
In instances where software powers an entire branch of government or is used to aid business functions of a multi-billionaire company, it’s not surprising that some software can cost to up to $1 million.
