[yndoendo]

Didn't know what Pixelmator was, looked them up and they only distribute through the App Store.

I haven't been an Apple user for over 10 years, through that macOS now uses the App Store to distribute OS updates. There is no getting around the App Store on macOS and must be used for Apple related software releases, such a Xcode.

The community that looks for applications not in the App Store is most likely quite low. It requires knowledge of the ability to side-load, how to do it, and where to find applications that can be side loaded. Homebrew installation ratio against total macOS users might be a good metric.

[mckn1ght]

You do not need to download Xcode via MAS, you can download the disk image directly from their developer website. Going through the MAS has been historically very painful for that big app and the day it is the only option is the day I probably stop using it unless they make some changes.

[kmbfjr]

Sideload?

I have five apps that get regular updates via DMGs, two of which are unsigned and do not meet Apple’s sandbox requirements.

All I have to do is authorize them to install in settings.

You and I can agree on Apple’s App Store power and abuses, but you can still call MacOS a computer OS.

[sroussey]

What unsigned apps do you use? The bar is pretty low to sign.