The End of SaaS: How Agents are Reshaping Software Consumption
For years, we’ve paid for software the same way: by the seat, through subscriptions... hoping it maps to real usage. But more often than not, it doesn’t.
Now, a new model is emerging. One built for agents, automated systems that complete tasks, not browse dashboards. And agents don’t need 10 seats to get things done.
For years, we’ve paid for software the same way: by the seat, through subscriptions... hoping it maps to real usage. But more often than not, it doesn’t.
Now, a new model is emerging. One built for agents, automated systems that complete tasks, not browse dashboards. And agents don’t need 10 seats to get things done.
Goodbye Subscriptions. Hello Pay-Per-Use.
Sam Altman hinted at this when he proposed per-use pricing for AI tools. Users pushed back, but enterprises? They’re ready.
Why? Because they want pricing tied to outcomes, not headcount.
Agents still log in and use tools, but don’t need excess seats.
Better agents = fewer licenses.
Pricing shifts from flat rates to task-based triggers—pay only when work gets done.
Microtransactions become seamless, enabled by crypto and stablecoins.
Instead of monetizing access, software companies will monetize actions.
Agentic Software Is Changing Monetization
As agents take over more workflows, the old pricing model breaks. We’re entering a new phase of monetization:
“The value capture is shifting—away from seat licenses and toward task completion, data utility, and agent enablement.”
This opens up new opportunities to rethink monetization entirely:
How do you price software when the user is an agent, not a person?
Should pricing shift toward datasets, not just UI features?
Can we subsidize certain users or price operating systems differently?
We’re moving toward models where value is shifting away from user-based pricing, and toward systems that charge based on usage, completion, and relevance.
The smartest agents won’t need more seats. They’ll just use what works.
From SEO to TEO: Agents Are the New Audience
Here’s something surprising: AI agents may already account for up to 20% of internet traffic. And they’re just getting started.
These aren’t simple bots. They’re intelligent agents acting on behalf of users: comparing prices, summarizing content, making purchases.
And they’re breaking the ad-based model in the process:
Agents don’t click ads.
They don’t get retargeted.
They don’t convert in traditional funnels.
This is where we move from Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to Task Engine Optimization (TEO).
The companies that win won’t be the ones ranking highest on Google, they’ll be the ones that show up first when an agent is executing a task.
The End of SaaS Is Just the Beginning
This shift isn’t just about how we price software.. it’s about who it’s built for. Winning products will be the ones that agents can find, trust, and pay and without friction.
More software. Less SaaS. A system that finally makes sense.