The new guidance for licences is different from today’s models, so the timing of revenue recognition might change depending on the model currently followed.
An entity should first consider the guidance for distinct performance obligations to determine if the license is distinct from other goods or services in the arrangement. Licenses that are not distinct are combined with other goods and services in the contract to identify a distinct performance obligation. Revenue is recognized when that performance obligation is satisfied. Complex arrangements, which include licenses and other performance obligations, will require careful consideration to determine whether the license should be accounted for separately.
The next step for distinct licenses is to determine whether the license provides access, in which case revenue is recognized over time, or a right to use an entity’s IP, in which case revenue is recognized when control has transferred to