Adobe has unveiled a substantial update to Illustrator’s generative AI capabilities, introducing features that designers will find highly beneficial. The most notable addition is Generative Shape Fill, which allows users to add vector details to shapes using simple text prompts.
In a recent press demo, Adobe showcased this feature by using the prompt “cute 3D robot” to fill basic shapes with intricate vector details. Designers can customize the shape’s strength, detail level, color, tone, and style references. Unlike Photoshop’s Generative Fill, these vector-based AI features are fully editable.
Taking the concept further, Adobe has also introduced Text to Pattern. This feature allows designers to fill shapes with seamless vector patterns using text prompts like “flora and fauna on navy blue.”
Another exciting new tool is Retype, which streamlines the process of working with fonts and text. Retype can create vector fonts from a JPEG image and match them to similar fonts in your library. It can even automatically fill in the background of the image from which the text was extracted.
These features, which are still in beta, are powered by the Firefly Vector 2 Model, an updated version of the original model launched last year.
Adobe has also added some non-generative AI features that professional designers will find incredibly useful:
- Mock-Up: This feature automatically maps graphics and logos onto real-life objects, making it easy to visualize designs on items like coffee mugs or t-shirts. Mock-Up understands depth and can curve graphics around various shapes. It can be found under Object > Mock Up, and comes with preloaded object examples like shirts and hats.
- Dimension Tool: This tool provides precise sizing for lines in an illustration, offering printer-ready measurements for fashion patterns, architectural drawings, or packaging designs.
In addition to the Illustrator updates, Adobe announced a new Generate Image feature in Photoshop, powered by the Firefly Image 3 Foundation Model.
Ashley Still, Adobe’s senior vice president of digital media, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing creativity: “Creativity is a uniquely human trait and our mission is to deliver the most innovative tools that accelerate ideation and inspire the creative community to unlock their imagination. These new innovations in Illustrator and Photoshop are built directly into designers’ workflows, allowing them to work faster and focus on what they do best — drawing, designing, and bringing their creative visions to life.”
