Apple has acquired the well-known image editing software Pixelmator. The Lithuanian development team, which created the Mac and iOS alternative to Photoshop, is to be fully integrated into Apple, according to the announcement. The acquisition could point the way for the future of image editing apps in the Apple ecosystem.
- Deep integration: Pixelmator is optimized for use in Apple products and complements native functions in macOS.
- No changes planned: No changes to Pixelmator are planned for the time being.
- Potential for market realignment: Apple could further expand its creative tools through the acquisition.
Apple expands its software range
The tool is popular with creative Mac users as a powerful and affordable Photoshop alternative. The app benefits from tight integration with macOS and iOS, making it an attractive purchase for Apple. The developers themselves emphasize their excitement about the future possibilities offered by such an environment and assure that the apps will continue unchanged for the time being.
The acquisition could open up new opportunities for Apple to challenge Adobe and offer more seamlessly integrated software solutions to its own users. In the long term, Apple could integrate Pixelmator into its existing creative programs or introduce new functions based on Pixelmator technology. The user base could also be expanded, as Apple regularly provides additional functions exclusively for macOS users.
Further development and plans unclear
Although Apple has already confirmed the acquisition, it is unclear what specific changes are in store for Pixelmator. So far, Apple has taken different approaches to similar acquisitions: While some apps were discontinued, others came back in a new form or were integrated into existing programs. The acquisition could also be subject to regulatory reviews to ensure competition.
Conclusion
Apple’s acquisition of Pixelmator marks a significant move in the software space for creative users. While the purchase price and specific plans remain unclear, the integration could offer Pixelmator users new features in the long term. Apple confirms the purchase, while the Pixelmator team speaks of a broader influence and more capacity for creative development. This should make things exciting in the field of Photoshop alternatives. Canva only recently took over its competitor Affinity.
