Free tier self hosted runners

[Jeff Cook]

In the update to this announcement https://www.atlassian.com/blog/bitbucket/announcing-v5-self-hosted-runners 

It is stated

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Update (Feb 12th, 2026): We’ve reversed our decision to deprecate free runner versions. We will continue to provide a free self-hosted runners option going forward.

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However it doesn't say what that means. Can v5 runners now be used for free, or do we have to use runners older then v5?

[Ben]

Hi @Jeff Cook @Jeff Miles 

Sorry for the delay. This update means that v3/v4 will remain free whereas v5+ will be paid starting from June 3rd.

The documentation and UI will be updated to reflect this decision.

Cheers!

- Ben (Bitbucket Cloud Support)

[Andre Pareis]

does this mean we can use v3/v4 past June 3rd? if not, we are all forced to upgrade and pay for v5?

[Jeff Miles]

This is very important for us to have an answer. As the article update states, "So we will continue to offer a premium tier, which we will charge for per the announced pricing. [...] If you want to use these advanced capabilities, you can upgrade to the latest version of self-hosted runners"

Does this mean if we update to the latest version, we are opting into the premium tier automatically?

If we choose not to upgrade to the latest version, are v3 and v4 still being deprecated in June 2026?

[Andre Pareis]

@Ben we're still awaiting your answer. thanks

[Ben]

Hi @Jeff Miles @Andre Pareis 

Apologies for the delay. I've spoken with our engineering team and confirmed that there will be a subsequent announcement coming soon regarding runners which will answer these questions.

I cannot share anything further, unfortunately. We do not have an exact ETA as to when the announcement will be public - but it will be well in advance of the June deadline.

Regards,

- Ben (Bitbucket Cloud Support)

[Kai Krause]

Hi,

i calling Atlassian for Assistance. i think they will respond  on this thread within 2 business days.

BR
Kai