Pixelmator

Pixelmator. Pixelmator is a layer-based raster graphics editor developed by the Pixelmator Team for the macOS, iOS, and iPadOS platforms. First released in 2007, it is designed to be a powerful yet accessible alternative to more complex applications like Adobe Photoshop. The software has garnered a reputation for its speed, leveraging technologies like Core Image and OpenGL, and for its modern, native macOS interface.

Overview

Pixelmator is built as a modern, fast image editor that integrates deeply with the macOS ecosystem, utilizing frameworks such as Core Image, OpenGL, and Grand Central Dispatch for performance. It supports a wide range of file formats including JPEG, TIFF, PNG, PSD, and SVG. The application is distributed through the Mac App Store and has been recognized with awards like an Apple Design Award in 2011. Its development philosophy emphasizes a balance between professional-grade tools and an intuitive user experience, making advanced image editing techniques accessible to a broad audience.

Features

The application provides a comprehensive suite of tools for photo editing and graphic design, including non-destructive layer-based editing, a vast selection of brush presets, and advanced selection tools like the Quick Selection Tool. It features sophisticated color adjustment options through tools like Levels and Curves, and supports RAW image format editing. Pixelmator includes a range of filters and effects powered by Core Image, and offers typography tools with support for OpenType and Google Fonts. Integration with services like iCloud allows for seamless workflow across Apple Inc. devices, and features like Machine learning-powered tools such as ML Enhance automate complex adjustments.

History

The Pixelmator Team, founded by brothers Saulius Dailide and Aidas Dailide, began development of the application in early 2007, with its first public release on September 25, 2007. A significant update, Pixelmator 2.0, codenamed "Glimmer," was released in 2011 and won an Apple Design Award. The company expanded to the iOS platform with the release of Pixelmator for iOS in 2014. Major updates continued, with version 3.0 "Cedar" introducing a new design and support for OS X Yosemite. The development of the more advanced Pixelmator Pro was announced in 2017, representing a major new direction for the software. Over the years, updates have consistently added support for new macOS technologies and expanded the application's capabilities.

Pixelmator Pro

Released in November 2017, Pixelmator Pro is a separate, professional-grade application that reimagines the original software with a single-window, non-destructive workflow. It introduced a new editing engine, support for macOS Mojave Dark Mode, and advanced color adjustments with color presets. A key feature is its extensive use of machine learning for tools like ML Enhance, Super Resolution, and the Remove Background tool. Pixelmator Pro also added comprehensive support for SVG editing and typography, further distancing itself from the classic version. It is sold exclusively on the Mac App Store and has its own distinct version history and update cycle.

Reception

Upon its initial release, Pixelmator was praised by publications like Macworld and Ars Technica for its impressive speed and value proposition compared to Adobe Photoshop. The release of Pixelmator 2.0 and its subsequent Apple Design Award solidified its reputation for excellent macOS integration and design. The launch of Pixelmator Pro was met with positive reviews from outlets including The Verge and TechCrunch, which highlighted its modern interface and powerful machine learning features. Critics have often noted its role in challenging the dominance of Adobe Creative Cloud in the professional creative software market, offering a compelling native alternative for many users on the Apple Inc. platform.

Category:Raster graphics editors Category:MacOS graphics software Category:IOS software Category:2007 software