macOS how do you approach software companies with a product?

[Darkroom]

so i know Google and Adobe has bought the rights from some 3rd party developers work in the past to use in their software... has it ever happened with Apple? has Apple ever purchased a program to use as a default app in the OS from a 3rd party or freelance developer? maybe not so much an application for the applications folder, but perhaps a utility or a plugin / addon for one of their apps? or do they make everything themselves?

what channels would one take to have their work reviewed by a big company like Apple?

i don't have anything to promote, i'm just being curious.

 

[robbieduncan]

They have purchased lots of software in the past. Final Cut was bought. Coverflow used to be a stand-alone app and was bought. In most cases for small apps the developer releases it and makes some money, it gets popular, then Apple buy it.

 

[Darkroom]

nice... so i guess you're saying it's a matter of exposure and popularity rather than contacting them and filling out a form or something.

 

[robbieduncan]

As an individual developer yes. Even if they don't want the app/code it's a good way to get yourself noticed by Apple if you want to work there...

 

[anonymous3025]

iTunes

Apple actually acquired iTunes quite a long time ago.