SAP has been busy reshuffling its product bundles and licensing options and if you’re not paying attention, those changes could sneak unexpected costs into your next renewal. Among the biggest shake-ups? Artificial intelligence features are no longer bundled into premium packages.

What’s Changed in SAP’s Offers

Until recently, SAP’s RISE with SAP Premium and Premium Plus packages included certain AI-powered tools and data services as part of the bundle. In 2025:

• RISE Premium was rebranded as Cloud ERP Private, and Premium Plus was discontinued.
• AI features, including embedded assistants and advanced analytics tools like SAP Datasphere, became optional add-ons.
• Pricing for these add-ons isn’t always transparent upfront, and you may not discover the full cost until you’re deep into contract discussions.

For customers renewing or migrating to cloud contracts, this is more than a cosmetic rebrand. Features you’ve been using or were planning to roll out could suddenly require new budget approval.

Why This Matters for Your Business

• Budget Planning Gets Tricky: If you based your ROI calculations on AI and analytics capabilities being included, you may be facing unplanned spend.
• Contract Comparisons Are Harder: New offer names and configurations make it difficult to compare old deals to new ones on a like-for-like basis.
• Innovation Gaps: Some organisations may delay or skip AI adoption entirely because of cost surprises, potentially losing competitive advantage.

Examples of Potential Gotchas

1. SAP Datasphere Unbundled: Previously part of premium packages, now charged separately. Data integration and analytics projects relying on it could see budget overruns.
2. AI Copilot Tools: Embedded AI assistants for workflows like invoice processing or supply chain optimisation may no longer be “free” upgrades.

Actions to Take Before Your Next Renewal

1. Audit Current Usage: Identify which AI or analytics features you’re already using or plan to deploy soon.
2. Compare Old and New Bundles: Line up your current contract with the rebranded offerings. Don’t rely on SAP’s marketing names alone.
3. Request Transparent Pricing: Push SAP or your reseller for a detailed breakdown of what’s included and what’s extra.
4. Challenge the Value Proposition: If a feature is now optional, assess whether its ROI justifies the cost or if alternatives exist.
5. Model Scenarios: Build TCO comparisons for staying with SAP’s add-ons versus third-party tools or postponing adoption.

Negotiation Tips

• Use Benchmarks: Understand what similar customers are paying for AI add-ons. SAP’s first quote isn’t always the market rate.
• Bundle Strategically: If you’re considering multiple add-ons, negotiate them together for better discounts.
• Leverage Timing: Plan renewals or migrations well ahead of deadlines to avoid last-minute pressure pricing.
• Lock In Predictability: Ask for caps on annual increases for any new AI features you adopt.

Livingstone Perspective

We’re seeing many clients impacted by these changes. Independent benchmarking ensures you’re not overpaying for shiny new features you may not even need on day one. Companies that don’t dig into the details risk budget surprises and missed opportunities. By auditing usage, modelling costs, and negotiating strategically, you can embrace AI on your terms without letting SAP dictate the price of innovation.

Need help?

Get in touch to discover our SAP licensing services and how Livingstone can take the pressure off you. Contact us and one of our experts will be happy to chat.

Author

Lucy Shillito, Senior Consultant at Livingstone Technology