Attached Link: Currently Free Version of DS4

No it wasn't intended on being an unannounced extended beta, the intentions all along was to offer a version of studio that was free as the primary base, so that anyone can try 3D, and they will still be offering a free version, there are no plans to discontinue that option as far as I know, the new free version is not yet out though they currently have a version that is currently free. as for why not just offer a fully packed program. well because some people dont want or need that and would prefer not to go through the expense if all they want is the basics, and a huge amount of people have been able to use the free version to see if they like working in 3D and than build up piece by piece if they can't afford all the bells and whistles at once. Now they are simply giving more options up front.