Canva’s recent decision to offer Affinity, an alternative to Adobe’s suite, for free has sparked significant debate within the art and design sectors. This announcement has led to excitement among some users who view it as a positive development, labeling it a breakthrough for those seeking a no-cost Photoshop substitute. Conversely, skepticism remains, with many questioning the underlying motivations of this move.
The new Affinity application integrates essential features from previously separate tools: Affinity Photo, Affinity Designer, and Affinity Publisher, which were each priced around $70. By combining these pixel, vector, and layout capabilities into a single free platform, Canva is positioning Affinity to attract a wide user base.
Following Canva’s acquisition of Affinity’s developer, Serif, in the previous year, anticipation grew when sales on the Affinity website were halted. This pause prompted speculation about future developments, culminating in the recent launch that turned heads and raised eyebrows alike.
While some creatives eagerly praise the functionality of the free Affinity app—highlighting its comprehensive range of tools—others voice concern about the potential pitfalls of using software from a profit-driven company. Users worry that advertisements could infiltrate the app, or that it may serve as a training ground for AI models, a claim Canva has denied.
Concerns extend to the long-term viability of Affinity’s tools, with critics questioning whether ongoing maintenance and timely updates can be assured without a subscription model. The possibility of gradual monetization has also been a point of contention, leading some to predict future subscription fees.
Additionally, the introduction of generative AI tools within Canva’s broader offerings has further complicated perceptions of Affinity’s free access. Premium subscribers will gain access to features like Generative Fill directly in the app, causing trepidation among those who feel that AI capabilities are essential for professional use.
Despite the division in opinions, many are eager to explore the capabilities of the newly launched Affinity app, which has received a generally positive first impression. Users appreciate the ability to edit PDFs alongside retouching images, although comparisons to the efficiency of dedicated software like Lightroom highlight some limitations.
For those whose work revolves exclusively around still graphics and who desire a free alternative devoid of AI complexities, Affinity presents a viable option. Available for both Windows and Mac, Canva is also working on an iPad version, expanding accessibility for users in diverse creative fields.
