We must be missing something. Why would Denafrips release their brand new ARCE streamer and not include support for Tidal and QoBuz? Was this a licensing issue or an engineering issue? Or, maybe something else?

As others have posted above, support for Tidal and QoBuz are very important features. I just do not understand.

Has Denafrips provided a release date when support for Tidal and QoBuz be available?  

No mystery about what this product is and it’s purpose. It’s first and foremost a Roon endpoint designed to go with their DAC's which explains I2S instead of USB as it’s main output. No different in purpose than the Holo Red or the Sonore products which also have no dedicated software package. Instead of delving into something they have no experience with they concentrated on the power supply, the outputs they thought important and the casework matching their DAC;s. Not a product intended for "everyone" as there are many streamers that fit that bill. If you want or need something that works like a Node then buy one.

It’s first and foremost a Roon endpoint

@jackd That is the impression I got from viewing their video.