Apple Acquires Pixelmator: Major Photos App Upgrade Expected

Apple has acquired the popular photo editing app Pixelmator, suggesting a significant upgrade is coming to the Photos app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Pixelmator announced the acquisition in a blog post, stating that the deal is subject to regulatory approval. While no immediate changes are planned for the Pixelmator apps (Pixelmator Pro, Pixelmator for iOS, and Photomator), the company teased "exciting updates to come." A Dark Sky-Style Integration? Apple's acquisition of Dark Sky in 2020, and its subsequent integration into the Weather app, provides a likely roadmap for Pixelmator. Many expect Apple to incorporate Pixelmator's technology into its Photos app across all platforms. A New Aperture? This acquisition could also signal Apple's return to professional photo editing software. Pixelmator's technology could fill the void left by Aperture, Apple's pro-level image editor discontinued in 2015. It could also offer a powerful native alternative to Adobe Photo…