The news of Apple's planned acquisition of photo editing app Pixelmator has caused quite the online stir this week, with fans speculating over how Apple might move forward with a native, first-party photo editing app (and one that happens to be one of the best iPad apps for designers).

If Apple's surprise acquisition of Mac developer Pixelmator passes the regulators, the future of its beloved apps may be bright — or there could be dark skies ahead.

The developers of photo and imaging software Pixelmator Pro and Photomator are joining Apple and a new software subscription could be coming together.