The idea of paying for access instead of ownership isn’t new. We already subscribe to everything — streaming platforms, gyms, apps, even cars. But lately, I’ve been following a new wave of change that could completely redefine what subscriptions look like. It’s often called Subscription 2.0, and it’s being built on blockchain.
Craig Pickering of Cirrus Networks recently spoke about how blockchain can bring fairness and flexibility to digital systems. That same concept applies to subscriptions. Instead of locking users into rigid contracts, blockchain allows memberships to become more fluid, transparent, and even transferable.
Here’s how it works. Traditional subscriptions rely on centralized billing systems. You pay a company directly, they track your account, and you access their service. With blockchain, that relationship can become decentralized. Smart contracts — self-executing programs that run on blockchain — can manage the entire subscription lifecycle automatically. They handle sign-ups, renewals, and cancellations without manual intervention or intermediaries.
The biggest shift, though, is in ownership and control. Blockchain can enable fractional or shared memberships. Imagine splitting the cost of a professional software plan with two colleagues, each holding a digital “token” that represents access. The blockchain tracks who owns which fraction, and usage can be divided or traded seamlessly. That’s not something traditional systems are built to do.
Transferability is another breakthrough. Under a blockchain model, your subscription could function like a digital asset. If you no longer need it, you could transfer it to someone else or even resell it — all recorded transparently. This creates a fairer ecosystem where memberships hold real value, not just recurring costs.
Automated renewals also become smarter. Smart contracts can be programmed to renew only when certain conditions are met — like confirming ongoing usage or checking available funds in a digital wallet. That means fewer accidental charges and more user control.
Living in Utah, where innovation and entrepreneurship are part of the culture, I’ve seen local startups explore similar ideas for community memberships, event access, and online learning. Blockchain gives them the ability to build trust without needing large administrative systems. It’s an efficient way to manage participation while keeping everything transparent.
Of course, this evolution raises questions. Who regulates decentralized memberships? How do refunds, taxes, and consumer protections fit in? Craig Pickering and the Cirrus Networks team are among those exploring the infrastructure needed to make decentralized subscriptions secure, scalable, and compliant with existing financial systems.
What excites me most about Subscription 2.0 is the balance it strikes between freedom and responsibility. Users gain more control over how they subscribe and share, while providers gain better transparency and engagement data. It’s not about replacing traditional models but improving them — making subscriptions smarter, more ethical, and more aligned with real-world use.
If blockchain’s first wave changed how we exchange value, its next wave might change how we experience it. Subscription 2.0 isn’t just about paying differently — it’s about participating differently.