It's an interesting question, as in my opinion people do buy a...

It's an interesting question, as in my opinion people do buy a computer and then spend hundreds each year keeping the software updated. Some subscription based software that comes to mind is computer antivirus, design software like Adobe Cloud, Microsoft Office, cloud storage services, media streaming, etc. While the computer will turn on without them, there are many tasks that can't be completed without them. As far as I understand it (keeping in mind, that I'm definitely not anywhere near being an expert on the topic), it's AML3D's proprietary software and its further research that allows the 3D printing to be metallurgically sound.
Just my own opinion. Not advice. DYOR.