Developer Launches Open Source Adobe Clones Using AI
Artcraft, a startup initially focused on AI image editing, has released seven open-source applications designed to replicate the functionality of Adobe's Creative Suite. Developer Brandon Thomas is using AI to create 'clean-room replacements' for Adobe's closed-source software.
Artcraft, a startup previously focused on AI-powered image editing tools, has introduced a suite of seven open-source applications that aim to replicate the user interfaces and functionalities of popular Adobe software. The applications, developed by Brandon Thomas, target Adobe's Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, Lightroom, After Effects, InDesign, and Acrobat Pro.
Thomas announced the new apps on Reddit, stating that he utilized Anthropic's Claude Opus 5.5 to build these 'clean-room replacements' in Rust, with WebAssembly versions available for browser use. The project represents a significant pivot for Artcraft, which began last year as a platform for precise post-generation editing of AI-generated art.
While acknowledging the current 'super early alpha' state of the software, Thomas has expressed an ambition for the applications to eventually match the full functionality of their Adobe counterparts. The move comes as users often seek more affordable or open alternatives to the established Adobe Creative Suite.
Initial feedback from online communities like Hacker News has highlighted the software's current limitations. However, the developer's use of AI for reverse-engineering and development signifies a novel approach to creating competing software in a market dominated by established players.