Apple has released new details about the future of the Pixelmator apps. Along with the introduction of Pixelmator Pro for iPad and a new Apple Creator Studio subscription, Apple has for the first time clearly communicated what will happen to the existing Pixelmator and Photomator apps for iOS. Apple officially confirmed that Pixelmator for iOS will no longer receive updates.
The Pixelmator apps have been an integral part of image editing on iPhones and iPads for many years. Following Apple's acquisition of the Pixelmator team, updates were released recently, raising expectations for many that the app would continue to be developed in the long term. Apple's recently published statement provides clarity but also causes disappointment for long-time users.
Apple introduces Pixelmator Pro for iPad
With the new Pixelmator Pro app, Apple expands its offerings for creative users. Pixelmator Pro for iPad was introduced alongside the new Apple Creator Studio subscription. On a newly created page on the Apple website, the company describes the features of the new iPad and Mac versions and answers frequently asked questions about the Pixelmator ecosystem.
At the end of this section of questions, Apple also addresses the existing iOS apps that have been offered independently of this so far.
Pixelmator for iOS will no longer receive updates
Apple has explicitly confirmed that Pixelmator will no longer be updated. This refers to Pixelmator Classic for iOS, which was originally released in 2014 as a companion app to Pixelmator Classic for Mac. The Mac version has since been discontinued.
According to Apple, the iOS app will continue to offer basic image editing functions. These include cropping, color adjustments, and simple effects. The app will remain functional and can still be used, but no new features or major changes are planned.
Pixelmator for iOS has continued to receive updates since its acquisition by Apple. The latest version is 3.1.16, released approximately four months ago. No further updates have been released since then.
Photomator will remain available
In contrast, the situation for Photomator looks much better. While Apple hasn't provided any detailed information about its future development, it has confirmed that Photomator will remain available as a separate purchase in the App Store.
This wording suggests that Photomator will continue to be supported and receive updates. As things stand, there are no plans to discontinue the app.
What Apple really means by "no more updates"
The statement "will no longer be updated" can be interpreted in different ways. Theoretically, minor bug fix updates would still be possible without adding new features. However, it's more likely that Apple means the wording literally and that Pixelmator for iOS has already received its last update.
This development is particularly disappointing for users who regularly use Pixelmator on their iPads. At the same time, attention is now turning to Pixelmator Pro, which Apple has clearly positioned as its future solution.
Apple's decision: Farewell to Pixelmator for iOS
With this decision, Apple is clarifying the situation. Pixelmator for iOS will remain usable, but will no longer be actively developed. Photomator, on the other hand, will continue to exist and could receive future updates. With Pixelmator Pro for iPad and Mac, Apple is clearly focusing on more powerful applications and new subscription models. For many, this means saying goodbye to a familiar app, but also a realignment of image editing within the Apple ecosystem. (Image: Apple)
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