The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word UNBOUND
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
U
N
B
O
U
N
D
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Released" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case released = unbound.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does UNBOUND mean?
UNBOUND verb- To take bindings off.
- To set free from a debt, contract or promise.
- To disable some kind of connection in software, such as a key binding.
- Not bound; not tied up.
- Without a binding.