Can NS/NSBU be activated/used WITHOUT creating a Norton Account?

Previous versions of Norton Products strongly suggested creating a Norton Account upon installation and activation using a purchased product key.  However, this was NOT an absolute requirement to using the product.  (Pressing NEXT twice then Remind Me Later...)

Is this still the case or will I HAVE to create a Norton Account to use the new NS & NSBU products?

As an aside, does anyone (from Symantec) know how much longer the 2014 products will get engine updates (we are now at 21.6)?

Thanx for any replies.