Figma has rolled out a significant update that adds new code layers directly into its collaborative canvas, supports animations and shader effects, and expands artificial intelligence functionalities including custom plug-in creation.
- Code layers enable integrated prototyping and iteration across teams
- Animation and shader support now built into Figma
- AI-driven tools allow creation of custom plug-ins and workflows
What happened
Figma has expanded its design platform by introducing native code layers within the collaborative canvas, allowing designers, developers, and product managers to work more interactively with code alongside design elements. This addition facilitates easier iteration and experimentation without requiring production-quality code from the outset.
Alongside code integration, Figma now supports creating animations, transitions, and 3D transforms directly inside the app, eliminating the need for third-party animation software. Additionally, Figma has enhanced its AI capabilities with skills for its assistant, enabling users to automate tasks, connect popular productivity tools, and generate custom plug-ins based on text prompts.
Why it matters
The introduction of code layers within Figma seeks to bridge the traditional gap between design and development teams by providing a shared workspace for iterative exploration. This can reduce handoff friction and accelerate product cycles by keeping design and code synchronized during prototyping and testing.
Supporting animation and shader effects natively allows designers to create richer, interactive experiences without leaving Figma, streamlining workflows. The AI enhancements further empower teams to automate repetitive tasks and customize their environment through AI-generated plugins and workflows, boosting productivity across multi-disciplinary teams.
What to watch next
Figma plans to deepen integration with the node-based tool Weavy, which it acquired last year, allowing users to generate and manage AI-driven workflows directly within the platform. This should further enhance automated comparisons of design outputs and rapid experimentation.
Observing how teams adapt to using code layers collaboratively will be key for assessing the update’s impact on design and development processes. Additionally, the adoption and evolution of AI-assisted plug-in creation could transform how custom automation and design solutions are developed within Figma.