Pixelmator Classic has finally reached its end of life cycle on macOS 14 Sonoma, and as we continue with regular updates for macOS 14 Sonoma, you might've noticed that Pixelmator Classic has been acting in a strange manner.
While this definitely isn't a new development, we feel that some more context is in order.
Couldn't you just update the original Pixelmator?
Not really, and there are a few reasons for that:
Pixelmator Classic was released back in 2007 as our flagship, layer-based image editing app for macOS, which featured continued support and free updates for well over a decade - up until 2020, when Pixelmator Classic was removed from the App Store.
When Pixelmator Pro was released in 2017, it was a huge internal leap for us - a leap into the new generation by using a completely new engine, which allowed us to build Pixelmator Pro from the ground up as an Apple silicon native app with all of the features and benefits that come with that.
At the time of release, a significant number of people would not have been able to run it, as the app is built using new technologies that require a relatively new Mac. Some of the changes might have been too drastic for a lot of people as well, so it made the most sense to release Pixelmator Pro as a brand new app.
What's going to happen to Pixelmator Classic?
With all of our combined efforts to keep Pixelmator Classic relevant for as long as possible, we believe that we've provided ample value for the app, and since 2020, we've steered our focus towards the future, which in turn began the End of Life cycle for Pixelmator Classic.
With that being said, if you'd like to continue working on macOS Sonoma and later, Pixelmator Pro will be necessary.
What is Pixelmator Pro?
Pixelmator Pro is an incredibly powerful, beautiful, and easy-to-use layer-based image editor for Mac. With over 50 image editing tools - Pixelmator Pro has everything you need to create designs, draw illustrations, paint digital paintings, and be creative in just about any way you can imagine.
Just like the original Pixelmator Classic, it’s designed to make the most advanced professional image editing tools accessible to everyone.
What if I mostly edit photos?
In May of 2023 we released Photomator for macOS - our photo editing powerhouse, offering incredible tools for enhancing, retouching, and managing your photos with powerful batch editing possibilities.
Simply put, it has everything you need to make every shot your best.
Which one should I choose?
A lot has changed since Pixelmator Classic gave way to Pixelmator Pro and Photomator, certainly too many changes to name:
If you'd like to learn more about our apps, check out our overviews for Pixelmator Pro and Photomator.
Can I try Pixelmator Pro or Photomator before buying?
Absolutely.
Click here to check out the free trial for Pixelmator Pro.
Photomator also has a free trial which is available directly from the in-app purchase window, you can find it here.
What if I want to keep using Pixelmator Classic?
You're still free to download and use the final version of Pixelmator Classic if you wish, simply click here to learn how to redownload your apps on the App Store.
To ensure maximum possible stability and compatibility, downgrading to at least macOS 13 Ventura will be necessary.
If you find that your Pixelmator Classic app is stuck, it's possible that a reset of the app could provide a solution.
Click here to find out How to Reset Pixelmator Classic.