I purchased the DesignStudio several years ago. Can I update the software for free or is there a cost to updating the software?
There is a Program Update available, but that's pretty much all there is for this application because Cricut doesn't provide any other updates anymore. They set focus on newer products that are currently supported and available for usage.
However, you can download the update through the following website: http://us.cricut.com/home/support/cricut-designstudio-reg-support/
There are some cartridges updates as well on that page as well.