The integration of artificial intelligence into the design workflow is drastically increasing UI/UX design productivity. Specifically, the new features unveiled at Figma's 'Config 2024' serve as more than just tools; they act as a strategic partner for designers. This guide focuses on the core methods of using Figma AI to exponentially improve your practical design workflow. Furthermore, we will analyze key features you can immediately apply to your work and provide useful tips on a highly reasonable alternative solution you can use right away without any waitlist procedures.
Part 1. Figma AI release timeline and how to activate It
Figma AI was first introduced in late June 2024 at Figma’s annual conference, 'Config 2024'. It is currently being rolled out to users gradually through a limited beta testing phase.
How to activate Figma AI
Want to use Figma AI but can't find the menu? Don't panic. Here is how to activate it:
- Check the toolbar: Open Figma and look for the newly added 'AI Icon' (a sparkle shape) in the bottom or top toolbar.
- Join the beta waitlist: If the icon isn't visible, you need to join the 'Waitlist' on Figma’s official website or ensure that 'Opt in to AI features' is checked in your account settings.
- Gradual rollout by region & account: Figma AI is being rolled out sequentially, not to all users at once. It’s highly important to keep checking for the latest version updates.

Part 2. Scope of Figma AI features – maximizing design productivity
Figma AI goes far beyond just drawing pictures; it focuses on drastically reducing repetitive manual tasks for designers. Here are the specific ways you can utilize Figma AI in your workflow:
- Find assets: Instantly locate the specific icons or components you need within massive design systems using keyword searches or visual searches.

Source: Figma official website
- Rename layers: AI analyzes the context of your content to automatically rename and organize messy layer stacks in a single click.

Source: Figma official website
- Rewrite and translate text: Rewrite your design copy in a more professional tone, shorten the text length, or translate it instantly into multiple languages.

Source: Figma official website
- Remove backgrounds: Cleanly remove image backgrounds with a single click, without the need for any third-party plugins.

Source: Figma official website
- Upscale images: AI analyzes low-resolution images and converts them into crisp, high-resolution visuals.

Source: Figma official website
As you can see, Figma AI is a powerful tool designed to eliminate bottlenecks in your design workflow.
Part 3. How to use Figma AI for free – switching to Pixso as the best alternative
While Figma AI is incredibly powerful, it will likely be restricted to paid plan users once the beta period ends. When that happens, Pixso is the absolute perfect, free alternative to Figma AI.

Why Pixso? (A flawless implementation of Figma AI features)
Pixso is a next-generation UI/UX design tool boasting high compatibility with Figma. It offers all the core functionalities of Figma AI for free or at highly cost-effective rates.
- The same AI experience: You can enjoy the exact same features in Pixso AI, including batch layer renaming, text rewriting and translation, background removal, and high-resolution image upscaling.
- High-quality design generation: Pixso’s real strength lies in its AI component library. You can instantly generate high-quality design drafts simply by typing a prompt, delivering even greater efficiency than Figma.
- Whiteboard & Collaboration: It fully supports AI whiteboard features for real-time collaboration and brainstorming.
Perks of getting started right now
Pixso is currently running an exceptional promotion for new users:
Get 300 free AI credits: Upon registration, you will instantly receive 300 free credits to test out the AI features.

- Try before you buy: It’s a highly rational approach—thoroughly test the features using your free credits before deciding whether to subscribe or purchase according to your needs.
👇 Check out the detailed Pixso AI tutorial below to see how to utilize it

FAQ
Q1. Is Figma AI completely free?
A1. Currently, it is available for free to select users during the limited beta period. However, it is highly likely that it will only be provided to paid plan users in the future. If you want to continue using AI features for free, we highly recommend considering an alternative tool like Pixso.
Q2. I can't see the Figma AI activation icon. What should I do?
A2. Figma AI is rolling out gradually. First, update your app to the latest version and check if the 'New UI' (UI3) is activated in your settings. If you still don't see it, you will need to check your status on the official website's Waitlist.
Q3. Does the AI accurately recognize and translate text in multiple languages ?
A3. Yes, both Figma AI and Pixso AI support multiple languages. Pixso, in particular, delivers highly optimized localization results, making it incredibly convenient for global and domestic designers alike.
Conclusion
Mastering how to use Figma AI has now become an essential requirement for modern designers. However, if you are stuck waiting for the feature to be activated or find the pricing burdensome, Pixso is an excellent solution.
From finding assets and organizing layers to removing backgrounds and generating AI design drafts instantly! Sign up for Pixso right now, claim your 300 free AI credits, and experience a whole new world of design.