Yes, the
OBDEleven falls into the "or equivalent" category.
Note: requires an Android OS device (VAG-CO/VCDS is Windows based).
The OBDEleven device looks very interesting. The concept of separately
purchasing "apps" or modules for specific functions
is a different approach to containing cost.
Long before OBDEleven existed, I purchased my VAG-COM 16 years ago
(with a cable upgrade 12 years ago) and that initial investment is still going strong.
Very rare to find a company that sells you a software license and
then provides free upgrades in perpetuity.
About the exact opposite of OBDEleven,
as their business model seems to be based on selling add-ons.