Free alternatives to Photoshop, built with AI — what ArtCraft can do
A new attempt to challenge Adobe’s subscription model is at the centre of the debate about what artificial intelligence can do for software development. ArtCraft is a suite of seven free, open-source applications designed to offer features and interfaces similar to those of popular Adobe programs.
The project was developed by programmer Brandon Thomas with the help of Claude Opus 5.5, Anthropic’s AI model, and the Rust programming language. The aim is to create alternatives that do not require an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription.
The applications hoping to compete with Adobe
The suite includes seven tools corresponding to familiar image, video and document editing programs:
- PhotoCraft: Image editing, with features reminiscent of Photoshop.
- LightCraft: Photo editing and organisation, as an alternative to Lightroom.
- VectorCraft: Vector graphics, comparable to Illustrator.
- FilmCraft: Video editing, taking its cues from Premiere Pro.
- EffectCraft: Tools corresponding to After Effects.
- DesignCraft: Page layout and print design, comparable to InDesign.
- PdfCraft: PDF document tools, as an alternative to Acrobat Pro.
The familiar interfaces are intended to make the transition easier for people who already know Adobe’s programs. The applications are available as an open-source project under MIT/Apache licences, and their creator hopes to develop them further with contributions from the community.
For years, illustrators, photographers, designers and video editors were under the complete control of a single software company, Adobe.
Why the project is attracting interest
The interest goes beyond the prospect of saving money. Developing software with the help of AI tools, a practice often called “vibe coding”, can reduce the time and effort needed to create complex applications.
Thomas has said that his frustration with Adobe’s subscription cancellation fees motivated the project. Early user reports suggest enthusiasm for the new applications’ familiar appearance and the prospect of a free alternative ecosystem. Positive first impressions, however, do not in themselves prove that the tools can cope with demanding professional work.
The limitations and unanswered questions
The key point is that the applications are at an early stage of development, known as alpha. Reviews by publications that have tested them highlight bugs and missing features, while questions remain about their performance, stability and completeness. There is therefore no evidence yet that they can fully replace Adobe’s professional tools.
There is also a legal dimension. Recreating a program’s functionality does not automatically mean copying its original code. However, a very close resemblance in the appearance and design of the interface could raise intellectual property or trade dress issues. The available reporting does not establish how such a legal case would be decided.
ArtCraft is, then, an interesting experiment in how AI can accelerate the creation of alternative applications. Whether it develops into a reliable tool for professionals will depend on resolving the technical problems, maintaining development and addressing the legal questions.
Sources: ArtCraft / PhotoCraft project documentation · LIFO · Ars Technica · VICE
Discover more from Agora Περιοδικό
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
