Redis, the widely-used in-memory data store, is once again embracing its open-source roots by changing its licensing model to the OSI-approved AGPLv3 for its upcoming Redis 8 release. This shift marks a departure from the previously restrictive SSPL license that was met with community pushback. The move comes as a response to the challenges faced by open-source projects in the era of cloud hyperscalers, addressing criticisms and fostering community support.
With this change, Redis aims to align better with open-source values and enhance its core platform. The decision to adopt the AGPLv3 license underscores a commitment to developer-friendly principles and community-driven development while maintaining strategic differentiation in a competitive market.
Redis 8 comes with significant performance improvements and new functionalities, including JSON and Time Series support, which are drawn from the Redis Stack packages. The inclusion of vector sets for AI workloads reflects the evolving demands of modern applications, aligning with the broader vision that Redis’ creator, Salvatore Sanfilippo, has for the platform.
Forks like Valkey, backed by cloud giants such as AWS and Google, have had an impact on Redis’ strategy, further motivating this return to open source. The license change is seen as a move to better compete in a diverse open-source ecosystem while nurturing community relations. Although concerns about the impact of the AGPL license on cloud providers persist, Redis continues to report robust growth and engagement within its community.
The broader industry trend towards balancing intellectual property protection with open-source values is evident in Redis’ strategic licensing decision. By embracing the AGPLv3, Redis reinforces its ethos, seeking to unify community contributions and secure its evolution as a leading open-source project.

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Redis is changing its licensing model to the AGPLv3 for the upcoming Redis 8 release, moving away from the SSPL license. This decision aims to align Redis more closely with open-source values and enhance its platform. Redis 8 introduces performance improvements, JSON and Time Series support, and features like vector sets for AI workloads. The switch is influenced by the impact of forks like Valkey and the need to compete in the open-source ecosystem. Redis continues to balance intellectual property protection with community-driven development.

Redis Returns to Open Source with Redis 8

too late, valkey is already better now

A master stroke by Salvatore Sanfilippo

Already switched to valkey on all my projects and i didn’t regret it.

Now waiting for mass transit, fluent assertions to do the same lol