Building TransMov: A macOS Tool to Convert Videos to GIF/APNG with Local AI Background Removal

Source: Dev.to

The Problem

When I was working on my previous app, I needed some animation assets. APNG turned out to be a good choice, and we also experimented with Lottie animations. However:

• Professional tools like After Effects are expensive, complex, and not always accessible, especially in certain regions like China.
• Video editing apps like CapCut support background removal, but export options are limited (MP4/MOV/GIF).
• AI tools like Lovart allow background removal, but they consume paid AI credits, which doesn’t scale for ongoing use.

I wanted a privacy‑first, local solution that could turn videos into GIF/APNG/WebP animations without relying on cloud services or paid subscriptions.

The Solution: TransMov

I first prototyped a web version using Cursor, which allowed me to generate the first cat animation for my PurrrrrFocus Pomodoro app. After seeing it work well, I decided to make a native macOS app.

• 1 week to build the first functional version
• Several weeks of testing and iterative improvements
• 1 month from idea to Mac App Store‑ready product

Features now include

• Video → GIF/APNG/WebP conversion
• AI‑powered video background removal (local processing, privacy‑first)
• Frame‑by‑frame preview and advanced export options
• Targeted at designers, developers, and content creators

Lessons Learned

• Start small: A single workflow problem can become a useful standalone tool.
• Prototype fast: The web version helped me validate the idea before committing to a full native app.
• Iterate with feedback: Early testing and adjusting based on small user feedback saves time in the long run.

Next Steps / Open Questions

I’d love to hear from the community:

• How do you discover niche workflow tools as an indie developer?
• Any tips for gaining early traction without a mailing list or pre‑existing audience?
• What’s your favorite approach to building privacy‑first creative apps?

If anyone is curious, I can share short demo GIFs showing AI background removal and video → animation conversion.

If you want to try it out, it’s available on the Mac App Store and Product Hunt.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, or experiences — please leave a comment below!

Thanks for reading! 🙌