Apple Updates Pixelmator Pro With New iPhone 17 Mockups, Expanded RAW Support, and Workflow Tweaks
Apple has released a new update for Pixelmator Pro, adding expanded RAW support, new iPhone 17 mockups, and a range of workflow and shortcut improvements across both its Creator Studio version and standalone Mac app.
On April 9, Apple updated Pixelmator Pro, issuing new releases for both the Apple Creator Studio version and the standalone one-time purchase Mac edition.
Apple’s current Mac release notes list Pixelmator Pro 4.2, while the Mac App Store listing for the standalone version shows Pixelmator Pro 3.8, reflecting differences between the two distributions.
Expanded RAW Support
One of the most notable additions in this update is expanded support for RAW image formats from newer cameras.
Pixelmator Pro now supports:
- Compressed RAW files from Sony Alpha ILCE-7M5
- Compressed RAW files from Fujifilm GFX 100S II and GFX 100RF
- High Efficiency and High Efficiency Star RAW files from Nikon Z5II and Z50II
- High Resolution RAW images from Panasonic LUMIX DC-S1RM2
These additions improve compatibility for photographers working with newer professional camera systems.
Updated Templates and Mockups
Apple has also refreshed several of Pixelmator Pro’s built-in template and mockup categories.
Updated sections include:
- App Screenshot templates
- Bento Grid layouts
- Device mockups
These now feature iPhone 17 mockups, giving designers updated assets for showcasing apps and interfaces on Apple’s latest hardware.
Workflow and Interface Improvements
The Creator Studio version introduces several workflow enhancements aimed at improving usability and compatibility.
These include:
- Improved SVG export compatibility with Adobe Illustrator
- A touch-and-hold gesture for instant before-and-after comparisons in Color Adjustments and Effects
- A new View > Customize Tools option for adjusting the Tools sidebar
These changes are designed to streamline editing workflows and improve cross-app compatibility.
New Keyboard Shortcuts and Controls
Apple is also expanding shortcut-based controls across the app.
New keyboard features include:
- Adjusting layer opacity using number keys
- Cycling through blend modes with Shift + Plus and Shift + Minus
- Selecting subjects across all layers
- Duplicating, cutting, and pasting selected areas
- Switching between topmost and bottommost layers
- Starting or stopping playback in documents with video layers
On iPad, these shortcuts require a Magic Keyboard, aligning the experience more closely with desktop workflows.
Two Versions, Slightly Different Features
The update also highlights how Apple is now distributing Pixelmator Pro across two versions.
- The standalone Mac edition focuses on camera format support and updated mockups
- The Creator Studio version includes workflow improvements, interface changes, and expanded shortcuts
While both versions continue to receive updates, their feature sets are not completely identical.
The Bigger Picture
This update reflects Apple’s continued investment in Pixelmator Pro as part of its creative software ecosystem.
By expanding hardware compatibility, improving workflows, and integrating the app into services like Creator Studio, Apple is positioning Pixelmator Pro as a more flexible tool for both professional creators and everyday users.