Figma announces big redesign with AI
Figma, a leading design platform, has unveiled a significant redesign and introduced innovative AI tools at the Config conference. The redesign, aimed at setting the stage for the next decade, features a fresh toolbar, rounded corners, and a collection of 200 new icons.
The company’s focus is to shift the canvas emphasis from its UI to users’ work, catering to both newcomers and seasoned Figma users.
This revamp marks Figma’s third substantial redesign since its closed beta debut. The updated look is currently in a limited beta phase, with interested users able to sign up for early access.
The standout addition is the introduction of generative AI tools. These tools offer a convenient way to kickstart design projects, akin to familiar AI tools like auto-generating email drafts. During a demonstration, Figma’s chief product officer showcased how the AI swiftly generated an app design for a new restaurant, complete with menu listings and delivery partner buttons. The AI also effortlessly created a design for a chocolate chip cookie recipe page.
Moreover, Figma’s AI capabilities extend to building prototype apps by connecting design pages and suggesting content, among other functions. These AI features are designed to streamline tasks, such as asset search and text generation in designs.
Figma’s goal with these AI tools is to empower both novice and expert users, allowing for easier idea testing for beginners and faster iterations for experienced users.
The company aims to leverage AI to enhance accessibility and productivity for all users.
The AI tools are set to launch in a limited beta phase, with plans for a full release in the near future. During the beta period, these AI features will be available for free, with potential usage limits. Figma assures users of forthcoming transparent pricing details upon the official launch of the AI features.
To ensure transparency, Figma detailed its approach to training AI models, emphasizing that the generative features are powered by third-party AI models and not trained on private user data. The company is committed to training its models on public, free Community files to enhance visual and asset search capabilities.
As part of its AI strategy, Figma allows administrators to control whether the AI can train on user-generated content, with different default settings for various plans. This cautious approach reflects Figma’s commitment to user privacy and data security.
In addition to the AI enhancements, Figma introduces Figma Slides, a feature akin to Google Slides integrated directly into the platform. This addition caters to users’ needs for creating and sharing presentations seamlessly within Figma, offering practicality and efficiency.
Figma Slides will enter open beta soon, offering real-time design tweaks within presentations and the ability to present app prototypes directly from the deck. Interactive features like polls and alignment scales enhance the presentation experience, providing a comprehensive tool for designers.
Following Adobe’s failed acquisition attempt, Figma continues to innovate and expand its offerings, setting the stage for a new era of design tools and capabilities.
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