The Halide one time purchase is $60, and I carry a full frame mirrorless (rx1) with me at all times. Also, while I understand your QA issue, I won’t spend money on apps that phone home against my will, on basis of principle.
Yes I'm aware of the prices. You not liking the price of an app doesn't make it "cancer". Personally I think the fact that they have found a model that works and that doesn't require releasing entire new versions of the app, keeps legacy users' versions up-to-date and bug-free while continuing to deliver new features and improvements should be celebrated. Especially from an independent developer team who clearly loves the craft.