Trailguide Premium
A monthly subscription with extra functionality for only 50 NOK per month
Bjørn Jarle Kvande, 18. May 2024Since 2013, Trailguide has been free to use and ad-free. Usually, when a service is free and ad-free, user data is sold. We have never sold user data and have no plans to do so.
To further develop and improve the service, we are now launching Trailguide Premium – a monthly subscription for 5 Euros. I would like to tell you a bit about why we are doing this and what you get in addition to the app you know today, which will remain free to use and ad-free.
Two happy nerds who enjoy both mountain biking and coding
Peter Seidl (Co-founder and developer), Bjørn Jarle Kvande (Founder and Developer in Chief)
Solutions for the tourism industry
In addition to the Trailguide app, we have over the years developed commercial solutions for the tourism industry, enabling them to digitize their outdoor activities for guests and visitors. The idea was that those who benefit from cycling tourism in the area should pay for the solution.
Challenges with sales
Although our technology is currently used by several tourist destinations, we (two data nerds) have not had the necessary sales skills to follow up customers in a satisfactory manner.
Financial challenges
To run Trailguide efficiently, we rely on some external services that cost money. Increased usage over the years has led to increased costs, which has become a significant financial burden for us.
Voluntary donations
Earlier we made it possible for users to donate money to us, something which have covered our digital operating costs for about three to four months. But this is not a sustainable solution for a software company.
Introducing Trailguide Premium
We are now transforming Trailguide into a freemium service where most of the features and access to all trail information will remain free as it is today, while some new features will be reserved for those having a premium subscription.
Simple registration
It is easy to register, and you will be automatically charged 50 NOK per month (about 5 Euros). You can stop and restart your subscription at any time. You can find the registration for Trailguide Premium under My Page when you are logged in to the app.
An affordable price
5 Euros per month is roughly the price of two ice creams or half a beer (in Norway). We hope this is an affordable price for most people, and it will make a huge difference for us with enough paying users.
Support membership
Even if you don't need the new features, Trailguide Premium is a great way to support the operation and development of the app. Software development is complex and resource-intensive.
Trailguide "playlists"
We have launched a new list feature, a kind of playlist like Spotify. Here you can create your own lists with trails you like, plan to ride, or want to share with others. Much more functionality is planned, and we hope this will be a valuable addition to the app.
Become a proud supporter
We encourage everyone who uses Trailguide regularly and has found fantastic rides to sign up for Trailguide Premium. Your support is crucial for us to continue delivering a great service.
With great regards from
The Trailguide Team
Bjørn Jarle Kvande
Peter Seidl