If you’re a long-term Linux user, you probably heard or know all there is to know about AppImage files. Whether you like the idea or not, the AppImage format has proved its worth, both from a conceptual and a practical standpoint.
The AppImage format solves two major drawbacks/issues with traditional Linux packages namely distribution and installation. With the introduction of the AppImage format, developers no longer have to modify their packages to meet the requirements of multiple Linux distros out there. Hence, no more compatibility issues due to missing or changed dependencies.
The only real potential drawback of AppImage files is that they can sometimes be quite bulky (due to the fact that all the dependencies come bundled within). However, the advantages far exceed this disadvantage.
If you’re a fan of AppImage, then you might be wondering if there’s a “place” where you can find and download them in a more “centralized” manner. The answer comes in the form of AppImage Hub.
Something even better than AppImage Hub?
Meet AppImage Pool, a free, open-source app that aims to be the one-stop Linux app store for finding, downloading, installing, and updating AppImage apps.
Here’s what you need to know about the app: it’s built using Dart and Flutter, which is also Ubuntu’s default toolkit. It’s basically a modern and stylish AppImage Hub client for the desktop.
How good is it?
It’s actually a lot better than one might think (at least the version we’ve tested it on). The GUI looks awesome and is quite responsive, it has a basic home/welcome page with featured and suggested apps, a nifty search function, and it packs version history and multi-download support.
Of course, the apps can be browsed based on categories, and all installed and downloaded packages can be viewed in separate sections, and that’s pretty much about it.
Verdict
AppImage Pool can be installed from Flathub, or run directly from the standalone AppImage file on GitHub (just remember to provide it with the required permissions beforehand).
There’s a lot to like about AppImage Pool. It’s a free, sleek, and modern app that provides a centralized way of dealing with AppImage apps. It also provides a great way of discovering and exploring a pretty sizeable variety of apps available in AppImage format directly from the comfort of your Linux computer’s desktop.
