There is always going to be an upgrade for a application in order to meet consumers/industries wants and needs. I originally purchased RayDream 5.5 and recieved the upgrade which was Carrera for only $99. I just hope they don't do like with Photoshop 5.0 and come out with a upgrade within ashort time after 5.0's release. However I checked out Adobe's website and have not found any mention about a purchase like in the Metacreations press release. But, for Carrera's price, it is a powerful app. On the next level you are talking software in the $1000's. But I think I understand your fear about completely changing the product and you are stuck with a product that never upgrades. If Adobe (or whoever) did purchase Carrera and want's to get into the 3D market they would lose alot of Carrera user's if they completely changed the product and never offered registered users an alternative. Anyhow, I have Carrera and am happy with it so far and intend to cross that bridge when I get there.This business can be a real crapshoot sometimes anyhow. Hope I was able to help.