# DesktopBeast™ Release Path Options

## Recommendation

Use a staged release path:

1. Trusted-friends private tester ZIP.
2. Paid EA Beta through a simple digital-download platform.
3. AI Underground hosted/download infrastructure later.

Recommended next path for Stormcrow:

**Trusted-friends private tester release first, then Gumroad-style paid EA Beta if tester feedback stays Green.**

## Option 1: Private Direct ZIP To Testers

Pros:

- Fastest.
- No payment setup.
- Best for trusted manual validation.
- Lets Stormcrow control who receives the package.

Cons:

- Manual delivery.
- No automatic updates.
- No buyer records or payment flow.
- Redistribution depends on trust.

Best use:

- Immediate trusted-friends test round.

## Option 2: Gumroad-Style Paid Download

Pros:

- Fast paid digital product setup.
- Handles payment and delivery.
- Easy for a $39 EA Beta.
- Less infrastructure than a full storefront.

Cons:

- Platform fees.
- Less brand control than a fully hosted store.
- Support/download access depends on platform flow.

Best use:

- First paid EA Beta release after Stormcrow approval.

## Option 3: Shopify Digital Product

Pros:

- Strong storefront and brand control.
- Good long-term commerce foundation.
- Can support multiple products later.

Cons:

- More setup.
- Monthly platform cost.
- Needs digital-download app/configuration.

Best use:

- Later Suite storefront if AI Underground needs a full shop.

## Option 4: GitHub Release With Private/Link-Gated Distribution

Pros:

- Developer-friendly.
- Clear release history.
- Easy checksums and release notes.
- Good for freeware/open-source-adjacent distribution.

Cons:

- Not naturally a paid download gate.
- Private repos/releases complicate access.
- Less friendly for non-technical buyers.

Best use:

- Internal release archive or developer/tester distribution, not first paid sales path.

## Option 5: AI Underground Hosted Download Later

Pros:

- Strongest brand control.
- Works well once payment/account/download infrastructure exists.
- Can unify Suite downloads.

Cons:

- Requires hosting, payment, access control, support flow, and security decisions.
- Not the fastest route to first paid EA Beta.

Best use:

- Later mature AI Underground TechBeast™ Data Capture Suite release infrastructure.

