AMD leaves Linux FPGA users in the lurch with controversial Vivado licensing update — new tier model restricts future free versions to Windows

AMD has revised Vivado 2026.1 licensing so the free Basic tier will be Windows-only.

Linux users will need the paid Core tier or stay on older Vivado versions that will eventually lose support.

The move has sparked backlash from Linux users, academics, and hobbyists who rely on low-cost FPGA tools.

AMD says it is collecting feedback on the policy as concerns grow about cost and access.