Ask LH: Why Can’t I Get AnyDVD To Work On Windows 10?

Dear Lifehacker, I just put Windows 10 on to my computer and now AnyDVD doesn’t work. Is there any way to fix this issue? I use it to watch movies purchased overseas and the other DVD-playing programs on my computer refuse to play the discs. I would like to have it back on my computer (I have a lifetime subscription). Is there any remedy you know of that doesn’t involve buying more software? Thanks, Foreign Reader

Dear FR,

If you’re using an older version of AnyDVD, it may be incompatible with Window’s latest operating system. To compound the issue, Slysoft — the company behind AndDVD — closed its doors at the beginning of the year due to “regulatory issues”. (Read the original post here.) This makes upgrading difficult as the original website no longer exists.

However, you can still upgrade to a new version of AnyDVD that’s friendly with Windows 10 — if you’re willing to pay a price. Back in March, Slysoft limped back into existence as the newly christened “RedFox” and brought its back catalogue of software with it. Unfortunately, the new version of AnyDVD is considered a separate product, so it’s not covered by your lifetime subscription. As RedFox/Slysoft explain on its forum:

If you purchased from SlySoft, you can only use it with a version no higher than 7.6.9.5. If you want to use RedFox AnyDVD HD 8.x.x.x, you’ll need to purchase a new license. If you purchased on or after 1st December 2015, you’ll be eligible for a special deal.

While it’s technically possible to get the last SlySoft version (7.6.9.1 2016 03 01) to work on Windows 10, you won’t receive any further fixes or updates. In other words, all previous versions are being left to die a slow death. Existing AnyDVD users are urged to upgrade to the RedFox version, which you can find here.

This is a stark reminder that so-called “lifetime” subscriptions and warranties rarely deliver on their promise. As the company is not based in Australia, seeking financial recourse is frustratingly difficult. You can contact the ACCC for advice, but don’t expect a reimbursement to be forthcoming.

If you refuse to buy the same product again on principle, gHacks has a great list of AnyDVD alternatives that are well worth considering. Check them out here.

We’re also going to throw this one over to our readers — what’s your favourite DRM circumvention software for use on Windows 10? Share your recommendations with FR in the comments.

Cheers
Lifehacker

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