Pixelmator Pro's Liquid Glass Design Remains Creator Studio Exclusive

Earlier this year, Apple introduced Apple Creator Studio – a new subscription bundle that provides users access to all Apple pro software on Mac and iPad, such as Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Motion, and Pixelmator Pro. With this launch, we got Pixelmator Pro on iPad for the first time – and a new Liquid Glass design on Mac. However, the latter is yet to be released for people who already paid for the app, and it doesn't look like that's going to change.

When Apple initially released the new version of Pixelmator Pro for Creator Studio users, it had promised that updates would continue for users who already purchased the apps – just that a few Creator Studio exclusive features wouldn't be there. That's more than fair, and that has so far remained to be the case. There's one catch there though – and the catch is that you won't get Liquid Glass.

New update, no liquid glass

The first major update to Pixelmator Pro since the Creator Studio launch came out this week, adding improved file support for some new camera models and new app mockup templates featuring iPhone 17 models. This update came to both the up front paid version and the Creator Studio version – with one key distinction: the up front paid app is version 3.8, and the Creator Studio app is version 4.2.

In functionality, they're almost completely identical – but for whatever reason, Apple has decided that people who already paid for the app won't be getting the new Liquid Glass design. To some, this is probably a benefit, since many aren't in love with the design language anyways. Nonetheless, if you're someone who likes Pixelmator Pro, already bought the app, and would've liked to have a Liquid Glass design – it appears you're out of luck, at least as things stand right now.

The Liquid Glass design represents Apple's latest visual language for macOS, featuring translucent elements that adapt to their content and context. This design approach has been rolling out across Apple's ecosystem, with varying degrees of enthusiasm from users. While some appreciate the modern, dynamic appearance, others find it distracting or difficult to use.

What this means for existing Pixelmator Pro users

For the approximately 1.5 million users who purchased Pixelmator Pro outright, this decision creates a clear divide. The app continues to receive functional updates and new features, but the visual refresh remains exclusive to Creator Studio subscribers. This raises questions about the long-term strategy for Apple's pro app ecosystem and how the company balances incentives for subscription services against maintaining goodwill with existing customers.

Pixelmator Pro remains a powerful image editing tool regardless of its visual design. The app offers robust features including machine learning-powered editing tools, comprehensive layer support, and professional-grade color correction. However, the absence of the Liquid Glass design means that standalone users are experiencing a different interface than those on the subscription service.

The broader context of Apple's pro app strategy

Apple Creator Studio represents the company's latest attempt to monetize its professional software suite. By bundling apps like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Motion, and now Pixelmator Pro, Apple is creating a compelling package for content creators. The inclusion of exclusive features like Liquid Glass serves as both a carrot for potential subscribers and a way to differentiate the subscription experience.

This approach mirrors strategies used by other software companies, where subscription tiers offer enhanced features or experiences. However, Apple's position is unique because it controls both the hardware and software ecosystems, allowing for deeper integration and more compelling exclusive features.

Looking ahead

As Apple continues to develop its pro app ecosystem, the question remains whether standalone Pixelmator Pro users will ever see the Liquid Glass design. Given that the functional versions remain identical and the design difference is purely aesthetic, there's a possibility that Apple could eventually roll out the visual refresh to all users. However, as things currently stand, the Liquid Glass experience remains a Creator Studio exclusive, creating a two-tiered experience for what is essentially the same powerful image editing application.

The decision highlights the ongoing tension between subscription models and traditional software purchases, particularly when it comes to aesthetic updates that don't affect core functionality. For now, Pixelmator Pro users will need to decide whether the functional parity is enough, or if the visual experience is worth the switch to Apple Creator Studio.