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In a significant shift for password management services, Dashlane has announced the discontinuation of its free tier, impacting users who rely on basic password storage without subscription fees. The move signals a broader industry trend toward monetizing security services and leaves free-tier users scrambling with tight deadlines.

The Countdown Begins

Current Dashlane Free subscribers received notifications detailing a strict timeline:
- September 16, 2025: Free plan access terminates
- August 12, 2025: Deadline for 50% discount on Premium ($30/year) or Friends & Family plans ($45/year)
- September 12, 2026: All unclaimed vaults permanently deleted

Users face limited options: pay for premium service or export their credentials. Those who don't upgrade by September 16 retain view-only access for one year but cannot edit or add new entries.

"This streamlining reflects our focus on advanced security features," Dashlane stated in its FAQ, referencing earlier moves like eliminating monthly billing options.

Free Tier Alternatives Emerge

The decision highlights stark differences among password managers' freemium models:
- Bitwarden: Unlimited devices/passwords with open-source transparency
- LastPass Free: Device-type restriction (desktop OR mobile)
- NordPass: Unlimited passwords but single-device enforcement
- Keeper Free: Mere 10-password limit on mobile-only

Security experts note Bitwarden stands to gain significantly, offering comparable features to Dashlane's paid tier at just $10/year for premium functionality.

Data Migration Guide

For users transitioning:
1. Export: In Dashlane web app: Settings > Export Data > CSV (mobile similar)
2. Security Warning: Exported CSV files are unencrypted—delete immediately after migration
3. Limitations: Passkeys and attachments require separate export

Market Implications

The move underscores password managers' struggle to monetize while competing with operating system-native solutions like Apple Passwords and Google Password Manager. As one Reddit user lamented: "Another consumer-unfriendly shift amid price hikes and declining support."

With cybersecurity breaches escalating, the elimination of free tiers creates accessibility concerns while pushing users toward enterprise-focused platforms—a pivot that may reshape the consumer security landscape long-term.

Source: ZDNET (Ed Bott)