Adobe MAX is here, and we have some new and exciting InDesign features that I can’t wait to tell you about. We even have a few enhancements to existing features that will increase your productivity and streamline your design process even more.
Looking for graphic and web design content? Visit the Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel, where I explain all the Adobe InDesign updates from Adobe MAX 2024.
Want to be kept up to date with video courses? Check out the new Envato Video YouTube channel.
Generative Expand
First up is InDesign’s Generative Expand feature powered by Adobe Firefly, which allows you to automatically fill in areas when resizing images. Make any background seamless with a few clicks of your mouse.
We no longer have to spend hours searching for photos that will fit perfectly. We’re now able to save hours on a project with this neat built-in feature. If you’re not satisfied with the result, you can generate multiple variations until you find the perfect one.
Adobe Express
Next, we can now export documents to Adobe Express. Designers, you’re going to love this one. If you have a client that is a little bit more hands-on than most, well, invite them to edit your InDesign document using Adobe Express.
Once you've Exported your document, you can Edit and Lock parts of the document to adhere to brand standards before sharing. This ensures minimal mistakes and reduces misunderstandings.
Text to Image
Up next is Text to Image, which is also powered by Adobe Firefly. This is great if you’re suffering from creative block and need some quick inspiration in a time crunch. With just a few strokes of the keyboard, you can generate multiple images that serve as excellent tools for brainstorming and layout ideas. This capability is a game-changer, especially for clients who require a quick visual representation of how a document will look.
Math Expressions
Let’s move on to Math Expressions. With the latest update in InDesign 2025, creating, styling, and editing math equations has become a breeze. We no longer have to use costly third-party plugins or navigate through tedious workarounds. This has all been simplified using the MathML panel.
Now, you can effortlessly Paste your math expressions directly into InDesign, Preview them to ensure accuracy, and customize their appearance by adjusting the Font, Size, and Color to seamlessly integrate with your document's design.
Generate Effects
The new Generate Effects feature in InDesign’s beta app is for anyone looking to elevate their documents effortlessly. Similar to the Simple Text Prompts, you can now spruce up any document in just a few clicks. Powered by Adobe Firefly, the Generate Effects feature enables you to incorporate images, textures, patterns, and more into any shape, including letters, transforming your designs into eye-catching masterpieces.
Now that we've got all the new features out of the way let’s talk about the enhancements Adobe has made to InDesign’s existing features.
History panel
Take a moment to explore the History panel, and you'll notice that you can now browse through previous edits and even create a new document from a previous version. Made a mistake? No problem at all! With a simple click, you can Revert your document back to its original version without any hassle. This feature not only saves you time but also enhances your design experience.
Password Protection
When working with sensitive print documents, it's crucial to prioritize security, especially when publishing them online. InDesign offers a great solution with its Password Protection feature. By taking the time to secure your documents, you ensure that only authorized individuals can access or modify your work.
Save to the Cloud
Unlock the full potential of your creative workflow with InDesign's Cloud feature, which allows you to access your documents anytime, anywhere—whether you're online or offline.
By saving your projects to the Cloud, you can boost your productivity and streamline your workflow across any device that has InDesign installed.
That's a wrap for Adobe MAX 2024!
Adobe MAX has introduced an impressive array of new InDesign features and enhancements this year, and it's hard not to be excited about them! I was particularly thrilled by the Generative Expand feature—this will save valuable time and increase my productivity. The upgraded collaboration feature in Adobe Express also stood out, making it easier than ever to work with teams and clients in real time.
