Setapp’s AI-Only Focus: A Barrier for Non-AI Apps Like AppHub
In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a dominant force, influencing the development and marketing strategies of software companies worldwide. This trend is particularly evident in the case of Setapp, a Mac app subscription service, which recently declined to include AppHub—a Launchpad replacement app—due to its lack of AI integration.
The AI Surge in Software Development
The past few years have witnessed a significant surge in AI adoption among software developers. Surveys indicate that by the end of 2024, 60% of Mac developers were either working on AI features or had already implemented them in their applications, up from nearly 50% the previous year. This rapid adoption underscores the perception that AI-enhanced applications are more innovative and superior, prompting developers to incorporate AI, sometimes even when it’s not essential to the app’s functionality.
AppHub: A Non-AI Solution to a User Need
AppHub emerged as a solution to a specific user need: replicating the Launchpad feature that was removed in macOS 26 Tahoe. The app effectively recreates the Launchpad experience, offering features such as customizable page transitions, trackpad gesture support, and both full-screen and compact modes. Despite its utility, AppHub faced distribution challenges. Apple rejected the app from the Mac App Store, citing a policy against duplicating the look and feel of Apple’s software, even though Launchpad was no longer part of macOS 26. Consequently, AppHub’s developer, Bohdan, opted to sell the app directly through Gumroad for $4.99.
Setapp’s AI-Centric Policy
Seeking broader distribution, Bohdan approached Setapp, a platform known for offering a curated collection of Mac applications through a subscription model. While Setapp acknowledged AppHub as a great productivity tool, they declined to include it in their offerings. The reason provided was the app’s lack of AI features, with Setapp stating their current priority is expanding apps for their AI+ collection. They did, however, leave the door open for future reconsideration, contingent upon potential policy updates.
The Implications of an AI-Only Focus
Setapp’s decision highlights a broader industry trend where the emphasis on AI can overshadow the intrinsic value of non-AI applications. While AI can enhance functionality and user experience, not all applications require AI integration to be effective. AppHub serves as a prime example of an app that fulfills a specific user need without the necessity for AI.
This AI-centric approach may inadvertently pressure developers to incorporate AI into their applications, even when it’s unnecessary, potentially leading to feature bloat and deviating from the app’s core purpose. Moreover, it raises concerns about the diversity of applications available to users, as non-AI apps may struggle to find platforms for distribution and recognition.
Balancing Innovation with Practicality
While the integration of AI in software development offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial for platforms like Setapp to balance innovation with practicality. By exclusively prioritizing AI-enhanced applications, they risk alienating a segment of developers and users who value simplicity and functionality over AI integration.
The tech industry should recognize that not all applications need AI to be valuable. Providing space for both AI and non-AI applications ensures a diverse and rich ecosystem that caters to a wide range of user needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Setapp’s decision to exclude AppHub due to its lack of AI features underscores the growing influence of AI in the software industry. However, this move also highlights the need for a more inclusive approach that values the functionality and purpose of applications, regardless of AI integration. By fostering an environment that supports both AI and non-AI applications, the industry can ensure a balanced and user-centric software ecosystem.
