Figma's annual Config conference has just wrapped up, and the team shared several exciting updates that are set to revolutionize the world of design. While these changes may not be entirely groundbreaking, they're certainly paving the way for what's to come in the near future.
Config 2024 Highlights
This year's product keynote was filled with new AI-driven features, improved responsive prototypes, and more. As a design systems designer, I'm thrilled to share all the latest updates with you in this article. Buckle up, as there's a lot to cover!
UI3: A Refreshed Figma
One of the most significant product changes is the introduction of UI3, a redesigned and refreshed Figma. For those who have been using Figma for years, like me, it's hard not to notice how much the design has remained unchanged since its early days. But that's exactly what makes this update so exciting!
The new UI3 features floating panels with the toolbar now at the bottom of the editor. While some might miss the old dark and full-width top toolbar, I personally feel more immersed in the canvas than before. The visual adjustment may take some getting used to, but it's a small price to pay for the modernized look.
What's even more exciting is that UI3 goes beyond just new panels. Every icon has been redrawn, and the appearance of controls and inputs within those panels has been reworked. This makes it easier to spot affordances for selection and input, and there's even a new option to enable Property Labels for improved muscle memory.
Figma AI: The Future of Design
One thing is certain – the tools we use to create our best work are constantly evolving. Figma has received several significant updates that will help us in our craft, but may also challenge how we approach design entirely. At Config, AI made its way into the Figma canvas in a few different forms.
Make Designs
Figma now includes AI interface generation, which is prompt-driven and limited to mobile and website designs. This tool can be used for quick design generation, which can sometimes be challenging or time-consuming to create. For example, I prompted Figma's AI to "create a website with a table with several rows and three columns." Within seconds, Figma's AI came back with a design that had a completely responsive auto layout-based table.
What's Next?
While these updates may not be entirely revolutionary, they're certainly paving the way for what's to come in the near future. As we continue to use Figma to create our best work, it will be exciting to see how these new features and AI-driven capabilities shape the industry. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest developments in swift app development!