Boxed Version vs Download Version.

[Captain America]

My question is NOT about which is better, that's for another time.
Is there anyway of determining from the package of the boxed version
of an add-on what version it is and if it contains the latest update?
For example I want to buy the PSS 777, boxed version. Now there have
been at least 2 updates, last one announced 18 Aug 06. When do you
think that update would be on the store shelves? I know that you
can always get a free update by download, but I want to get the latest boxed product available. The relationship between the developer and the distributor of the the boxed product is strained to say the least. Each points the finger at the other and says its their responsibillty. I bet they continue to sell all the outdated
products until sold, then sell the newer version. The first update for the PSS 777 came out in April 06. When I asked at the computer store, "how long have you had this on the shelve". They said they did
not know, that's crap. I believe all parties involved know what I'm trying to do, and they want me to buy the outdated product until it's all sold out. My main reason for buying boxed versions-I've been
burned in the past by losing download code/key and then told "sorry charlie". Does anyone have any thoughts on this? If you have the
boxed version of PSS 777, what version did you get? Thanks.

[bugdozer]

It's probably not possible to tell by just looking at the box - the developers would need to re-do all the printing templates for their packaging etc. Similarly, the retailer may know when he got the stock in but will not know how long that stock may have been in the distribution warehouse prior to reaching his store.
In my experience there's been no problem with getting older boxed products updated via downloadable patches - I have done that with FScene, Flying Club and Traffic 2005 and it's always been a simple procedure. If you can do that then it doesn't matter whether the product is not quite up to date when you buy it. It is pretty much standard practice with payware add ons as far as I can tell. I prefer to buy boxed products for the same reasons as you (fear of losing download key, or it only being valid for a time) and most of mine have been patched or updated via downloads.