The NX5000 ships loaded with all features but requires a purchased license key to enable per ESN/Model and Serial Number.
First "gut" reaction to this: "Oh dear God, someone at Kenwood went and drank the Motorola Kool-Aide"
Second, delayed reaction: I can see this being useful -IF- it helps keep the prices down, and adding features is easy and not too expensive. Still sounds like they've been swilling the Kool-Aide. I hope they don't screw this up, and I hope their execution of it makes sense.
I am very new to the KW world and I am excited about this radio series.Also trying to get more control over programming software and licenses for such.
I'm looking forward to this radio, too. I would have just ordered 20 VHF/800 units if they were available.
Again, "getting more control over programming software and license" starts to sound, on the surface, like Kool-Aide consumption. Again, I'm OK with licensing software as long as the prices remain reasonable and it's executed in a way that makes sense. If they start going all Moto-y on this I'll be happy to remind them that I'm not exclusive to Kenwood and I'll take my business elsewhere.
Not attacking the messenger. Thanks for posting all this, I appreciate it. I was hoping we'd hear some news today.