It’s a catch 22. When you start to use multiple plugins from a developer then you very much appreciate having a dedicated dedicated download/installation manager. Doing so manually is a pain in the ass. This also applies to copy protection; again try manually wrangling your licenses keys for scores of plugins. It’s not fun.
It’s also generally easier for developers and the end user to administer updates. Buy enough plugins from say, Plugin Boutique, and you’ll find out what a PITA it is to keep up with updates through their system.
Also in terms of more independent developers needing to supply larger files, like Kontakt libraries and such, using 3rd party managers like Pulse for example, saves them headaches and server space costs, and streamlines things.
The difference nowadays is that there are so many plugin developers compared to say 10-15 years ago that its become something of a necessity. This is partly why I don’t get the hate on iLok. Its specifically a single system to manage copy protection, as opposed to having to deal with tons of different systems. But I say that as someone has hasn’t ever experienced issues with it (Gen 1 iLok still going strong after 15 years).
Well the recent transition by Steimberg ftom thrir Syncrosoft dongles to thrir atrocious online activation system is a timely warning what an absolute clusterfucj itxwas, with customers left unable to use their software, and now were left with thrir woeful activation manager.
The buyers asked for it, and very quickly regretted it. Sometimes the grass is not greener on the other side of the fence.
Not aure what your beef either the iLok gui is. I mean considering how often it gets interacted with. Just don’t use their cloud licenses and it will be fine.