Symantec launches membership model

Security company Symantec will soon launch a new product called Norton One that allows customers to have memberships, rather than subscriptions.

The membership model is the first of its kind in the security software industry, according to Symantec's product marketing manager for the Asia Pacific region, David Hall.

"We've been talking to a lot of people for many, many years about what memberships mean to them, and no one in the security industry is doing this. We're all pretty well subscription-based," he said.

Using Norton One means that customers will have just one date on the calendar to renew security memberships, rather than several dates if they use multiple Norton products, like Norton Mobile Security and Norton 360.

The product is aimed at less technical customers who want to be able to have other people install and support their products. As such, the key difference between Norton One and a regular Norton subscription is the 24/7 customer support.

"Something that constantly comes up is, with the growing segment that are attracted to the membership model, they want hassle-free, and simplicity, and flexibility," Hall said.

Hall compared the support services to an airline's frequent flyer programme.

"When they type my number in they know who I am, so it's customised for me. They can personalise and communicate stuff that's just relevant to me," he said.

"So those are some of the things that have been brought up when we talk about membership that we'd really like to include in Norton One."

Norton One is currently only available as a closed pilot. It will be available in New Zealand in Spring of this year.

Norton One will cost $200 and provide protection and support for up to five devices.