WeTransfer Free Plan Now Limited to 10 Transfers Per Month
WeTransfer, the popular file-sharing service, has introduced new restrictions for its free plan, capping users at 10 transfers per month. The change, which is already in effect, was confirmed through the company’s support page.
New Perks for Free Users
While the transfer limit is a notable restriction, WeTransfer has added several enhancements to its free plan:
- Increased file size limit: Users can now transfer files up to 3GB per transfer, up from the previous 2GB.
- Unlimited portals and reviews: Collaborative folders and tools for client feedback are now available.
- Password protection: All transfers on the free plan can now be password-protected.
- No more 5% fee on paid transfers: Previously, a 5% fee applied to users selling files through the platform, but this has been removed.
Updated Pricing Structure
Alongside these changes, WeTransfer has revamped its subscription offerings:
- New Starter Plan: Priced at $6.99 per month, this plan mirrors the free plan’s benefits but increases the file storage limit to 300GB.
- Ultimate Plan: The previous Pro and Premium tiers, priced at $15 and $25 per month, respectively, have been consolidated into a single $25 per month Ultimate plan, which bundles all premium features.
Ownership and Layoffs
WeTransfer’s changes follow its acquisition by Italy-based Bending Spoons in July. At the time, industry speculation suggested the new ownership might lead to layoffs or pricing adjustments. Both predictions have now come to fruition:
- In September, Bending Spoons reduced WeTransfer’s workforce by 75%.
- The new pricing and feature adjustments signal a significant shift in the platform’s monetization strategy.
A Familiar Strategy
Bending Spoons employed a similar approach with Evernote, which it acquired in 2022. The company drastically reduced Evernote’s staff and later imposed limitations on its free plan. In August, Bending Spoons also introduced new file expiry rules based on subscription levels.
These changes suggest a deliberate strategy of restructuring and monetization by Bending Spoons as it integrates new acquisitions into its portfolio.
