Online graphic editor Canva now uses AI to generate images and create apps

Free online graphic editor Canva has introduced AI tools for generating images and creating mini-apps using only text queries. Despite the discontent of artists who oppose the use of their works to train AI, and fears that artificial intelligence will replace their work, companies continue to actively implement technology in their projects. Canva is no exception.

Image Source: Canva

Canva AI, the new AI assistant, can generate images on demand, suggest designs for social media and print, and write text. And with Canva Code, TechCrunch notes, users will be able to create interactive elements, such as maps and custom calculators, that can be embedded in apps and websites. Canva is partnering with Anthropic to do this, according to co-founder and chief product officer Cameron Adams.

While Canva isn’t the first to enter the AI-powered design and web design space (startups Cursor, Replit, and others offer similar tools), the integration of AI features is a natural addition to the platform. The company also announced AI-powered photo editing tools, including automatic retouching and background replacement, giving it more competition from Adobe Photoshop and Pixelmator.

The service also launched its own spreadsheets — Canva Sheets with the Magic Insights tool, which helps find patterns in data, and the Magic Charts tool, which automatically turns numbers into visual charts with a corporate style. Integration with services such as Google Analytics and HubSpot is supported.

While artists are wary of the consequences of mass AI implementation, Cameron Adams believes that it is not about replacing people, but about transforming professions. “Every job will change and adapt to new opportunities. We, in turn, see huge potential in this,” he emphasized. He attributed the recent layoffs at the company to a restructuring not directly related to AI.