That would actually be quite sad. I personally can’t stand customized apps. I think they are a possibility in theory but they have to be extremely – and I mean extremely – well done.
The likelihood that somewhere something is screwed up or not as good as the default is just so high. I have found that my personal standards are nearly always higher than the developers’.
I can’t believe, though, that I’m typical in that respect so ugly apps that stick out may well sell better.
Based on my experience, your tastes are definitely not typical (at least of app store customers). Customized UIs are very popular, and in my opinion they are definitely not ugly. But opinions matter very little in the marketplace...
It’s not the customized apps themselves that are (to my eyes) ugly – though that may sometimes be the case – it’s the inconsistencies, the lack of polish and the lack of thought that usually comes with having a customized UI.
Sure, but my point is that buyers don't know whether the UI is consistent or not until they actually buy it. All they have to go off of are screenshots, and if they see screenshots of standard looking SDK components they'll gloss right over it. The app store is essentially window shopping, that's why overdesigning sells. So given a choice between pleasing UI snobs and actually making money, it's not a tough decision to make =)
EDIT: Re trials: most paid apps (mine included) have limited free versions that you can try.
The likelihood that somewhere something is screwed up or not as good as the default is just so high. I have found that my personal standards are nearly always higher than the developers’.
I can’t believe, though, that I’m typical in that respect so ugly apps that stick out may well sell better.