Latest news with #Figma
The Verge
2 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
Figma will let your AI access its design servers
Figma is launching a new tool that can help AI models more effectively translate designs into fully coded applications. The product design company is giving LLMs and agentic coding tools like Copilot in VS Code and Claude Code more context about how designs are created in Figma via a new Dev Mode Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, which is rolling out in beta for users with Dev or Full seat Figma access. The MCP server is a developer tool that allows AI models to directly tap into data from Figma, such as precise figures used in graphs or the exact color shades used in a design, instead of visually guessing based on image files. Figma likens this process to replicating a painting, as someone would need to both see the image and know the technique used to make it — the design data, in this example — to accurately recreate it. It should help to reduce LLM usage by minimizing the amount of work it takes for AI coding tools to transform designs into functional applications that accurately reflect what the developer was envisioning. Figma says it plans to release a slew of Dev Mode MCP Server updates 'in the coming months,' including remote server capabilities and 'deeper codebase integrations.' The beta rollout follows the prompt-to-code Figma Make platform introduced in May becoming fully available to all Full seat Figma users on Tuesday, which allows users to create working applications by describing them. The Figma Sites Code Layers feature that provides AI tools for turning designs into interactive website experiences will be rolling out on June 12th.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
A Comprehensive Guide to Mobile App Development in 2025
In a world that's increasingly connected, mobile apps are more than just digital tools — they are the lifeblood of modern interaction. Whether it's for eCommerce, health tracking, education, or even spiritual wellness, mobile applications are shaping every sector. But what goes into building a great app? And why is choosing the right mobile app development company so vital? This guest post dives deep into everything you need to know about mobile app development in 2025 — from emerging trends to architecture, development phases, user experience, and monetization models. Whether you're a business owner, tech enthusiast, or aspiring developer, this article is your roadmap to digital success. Mobile app development is the process of creating software applications that run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. It involves everything from ideation and planning to coding, testing, and deployment. Apps can be native, hybrid, or web-based — each with its own pros and cons. Why It Matters Mobile apps connect brands with their customers on a more personal level. In fact, global consumer spending in mobile apps hit a record $170 billion in 2024 — and the curve is still rising. Fun Fact: According to Statista, mobile apps are projected to generate over $935 billion in revenue by 2025! To kick off your journey, it's important to understand the various types of mobile apps: Type Technology Stack Best Use Case Native Swift (iOS), Kotlin (Android) High performance & security Hybrid Flutter, React Native Faster development, multi-platform Web App HTML5, JavaScript, CSS Lightweight, less expensive Progressive Web App (PWA) Angular, Offline access, app-like experience Each type has distinct benefits. A mobile app development company can help determine which approach is best for your business goals. From idea to reality, mobile app development involves several critical stages: Discovery & Research Understand the user needs, market trends, and define the core problem. Understand the user needs, market trends, and define the core problem. Wireframing & UI/UX Design Craft the look and feel of the app using Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD. Craft the look and feel of the app using Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD. Development Write clean and efficient code for front-end and back-end functionality. Write clean and efficient code for front-end and back-end functionality. Testing & Quality Assurance Perform functional, performance, and security tests. Perform functional, performance, and security tests. Deployment Launch the app on platforms like Google Play and Apple App Store. Launch the app on platforms like Google Play and Apple App Store. Post-Launch Support & Updates Fix bugs, update features, and monitor performance analytics. 'Success isn't just about launching an app. It's about sustaining it in a dynamic market.' Great apps have a few things in common. Here's what every app should include: User-Centric Interface Simplicity wins. Clean, intuitive design boosts user retention. Simplicity wins. Clean, intuitive design boosts user retention. Fast Load Time No one waits. Keep load times under 2 seconds. No one waits. Keep load times under 2 seconds. Personalization Use AI and machine learning to tailor user experiences. Use AI and machine learning to tailor user experiences. Offline Access Even limited functionality offline keeps users engaged. Even limited functionality offline keeps users engaged. Push Notifications Smart alerts increase engagement without being intrusive. Staying updated with Mobile App Development Trends can be a game-changer. Here are the hottest trends: AI & Machine Learning Integration From chatbots to smart recommendations, AI rules the game. From chatbots to smart recommendations, AI rules the game. AR/VR Capabilities Perfect for e-commerce, healthcare, and entertainment. Perfect for e-commerce, healthcare, and entertainment. Voice-Enabled Interfaces With smart assistants like Siri and Alexa, voice UX is booming. With smart assistants like Siri and Alexa, voice UX is booming. Blockchain for Security Data transparency and secure transactions make it vital in fintech. Data transparency and secure transactions make it vital in fintech. 5G Technology Lightning-fast speed enhances app responsiveness and functionality. Why partner with a mobile app development company? Expertise. Scalability. Speed. These are the pillars of a reliable tech partner. Whether you're a startup or an enterprise, outsourcing app development allows you to: Tap into a pool of seasoned developers Save costs on infrastructure and recruitment Scale faster with dedicated project managers and designers Ensure timely delivery with agile methodologies 'The right development partner can turn your app idea into a market leader.' When hiring a mobile app development company, consider the following: Portfolio Look at their past work — are the apps user-friendly and polished? Look at their past work — are the apps user-friendly and polished? Tech Stack Expertise Make sure they're updated with the latest frameworks and languages. Make sure they're updated with the latest frameworks and languages. Client Testimonials A company's reputation tells a lot. Look for authentic reviews. A company's reputation tells a lot. Look for authentic reviews. Post-Deployment Support Do they offer updates, bug fixes, and analytics support? Want to turn your app into a revenue-generating machine? Here are top monetization models: In-App Purchases Offer premium features, game credits, or digital goods. Offer premium features, game credits, or digital goods. Subscription Plans Charge monthly or annually for continued usage or premium content. Charge monthly or annually for continued usage or premium content. Freemium Model Provide basic features free and premium features at a cost. Provide basic features free and premium features at a cost. Advertising Integrate non-intrusive ads via platforms like AdMob or Facebook Audience Network. Integrate non-intrusive ads via platforms like AdMob or Facebook Audience Network. Affiliate Marketing Earn revenue by promoting third-party services within your app. Don't let your users down. App security is non-negotiable. Focus on: Data Encryption Protect sensitive information during transmission. Protect sensitive information during transmission. Biometric Authentication Use fingerprint or facial recognition for login security. Use fingerprint or facial recognition for login security. Secure API Communication Prevent unauthorized access with proper authentication. Prevent unauthorized access with proper authentication. Regular Code Audits Identify vulnerabilities early in the development process. Frameworks like React Native and Flutter have changed the game. With one codebase, apps run seamlessly on both iOS and Android. Pros: Faster Development Cost-Effective Easier Maintenance Cons: May Lack Native Performance Limited Access to Device Features Speak with a mobile app development company to determine if cross-platform is your best bet. Native Apps: Better performance Rich UX Direct access to device features Hybrid Apps: Faster to market Lower cost Easier to maintain Still confused? A seasoned mobile app development company can guide you based on your budget and audience. UI (User Interface) is how it looks. UX (User Experience) is how it feels. Focus on: Onboarding Experience Minimal Navigation Consistent Design Language Micro-Interactions Aesthetic + Functional = Addictive App Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is your app's first version with core features only. Benefits: Lower initial costs Get user feedback early Validate your business model It's a smart strategy recommended by any professional mobile app development company. Here's what robust QA involves: Manual & Automated Testing Compatibility Testing (across devices & OS) Performance Testing Security Testing User Acceptance Testing (UAT) Buggy apps don't survive long. Invest in testing. Just like SEO for websites, ASO helps your app rank in app stores. Tips: Use relevant keywords in title & description Use high-quality screenshots and preview videos Encourage user ratings and reviews Localize your listing for different regions Launching your app isn't the end — it's the beginning. Gather user feedback Monitor performance metrics Regular updates with new features Marketing & user acquisition campaigns Costs vary widely based on: Type of app (basic, mid-level, complex) Platform (iOS, Android, both) Development time & location of the team Custom design & integrations A basic app might cost $10,000–$30,000, while complex apps can go beyond $150,000. Discuss your scope with a trusted mobile app development company for accurate estimates. Here are popular tools used by developers today: Languages : Swift, Kotlin, Dart, JavaScript : Swift, Kotlin, Dart, JavaScript Frameworks : Flutter, React Native, Xamarin : Flutter, React Native, Xamarin Backend : Firebase, AWS, MongoDB : Firebase, AWS, MongoDB Design : Figma, Adobe XD : Figma, Adobe XD Analytics: Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude The future looks exciting: Neural Interfaces AI-Generated Apps Hyper-Personalized Experiences IoT-Connected Apps Decentralized Apps (DApps) Your app has to evolve — or it'll dissolve. What is the average time to develop a mobile app? On average, modern mobile app development can take 3–9 months depending on complexity, team size, and functionality. Should I choose native or cross-platform development? Choose native for performance-heavy apps. Choose cross-platform for faster and more affordable builds. How do I protect my app idea? Sign NDAs with your development team and consider patenting unique functionalities. Can I make changes after the app is launched? Absolutely. Regular updates improve performance and user satisfaction. How do I market my app post-launch? Use ASO, social media campaigns, influencer outreach, and email marketing. In today's fast-paced world, a mobile app is no longer a luxury — it's a necessity. Whether you're looking to launch a simple productivity tool or the next viral social media platform, understanding the development journey is crucial. Partnering with the right mobile app development company ensures you have expert support from ideation to launch and beyond. With the right strategy, tools, and team, your app can be more than a download — it can be a daily habit. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Console raises $6.2M from Thrive to free IT teams from mundane tasks with AI
If you've ever been locked out of your work computer, you know the urgent need to reach IT support. Unfortunately, help desk staff are often busy assisting others, which can mean a significant delay before you regain access. Andrei Serban realized the critical importance of IT's manual work when he was a product lead on Rippling's apps and integrations team. Serban, who joined Rippling after it acquired his coding security startup Fuzzbuzz in 2023, saw an opportunity to automate many of the help desk's basic tasks with AI, from resetting passwords, to granting access to apps like Figma and Miro, to routine troubleshooting. Serban couldn't wait to get started on his vision. He left Rippling last year to found Console, a startup on a mission to help IT teams reduce mundane, repetitive tasks, thereby freeing up time for help desk professionals to work on more strategic and sophisticated projects. While trying to automate help desk functions isn't new, Console differentiates itself from existing competitors — including Moveworks, which was acquired by ServiceNow in March for $2.85 billion — by forgoing long, complex installation processes. Thanks to its easy integration with Slack, Console's AI assistant can be made available to everyone in the company in just a few weeks. "We're able to get there so fast because we don't require you to replace your help desk," he said. Console sees itself as an AI co-worker that up-levels existing help desk professionals. Serban even suggested that as companies digitize more of their operations, the IT function will become increasingly vital. Employees message Console on Slack and the startup's AI agent quickly responds to requests because it knows everything about the user, from their specific laptop model to the applications they have permission to use. Console's AI can resolve over 50% of the tasks on its own, and it will loop in someone from IT for more complex issues, Serban said. The fast install time attracted customers, including Scale AI, Flock Safety, and Calendly. These customer wins have led Console to secure $6.2 million in seed funding from Thrive Capital. Vince Hankes, a partner at Thrive, said that the firm, which has backed many of the leading AI companies, including OpenAI, Cursor, and ElevenLabs, has had a thesis about artificial intelligence's potential to assist with IT tasks since ChatGPT was first released in the fall of 2022. While Hankes acknowledged that Console's fast integration might make it seem easily replaceable, he believes its AI technology will improve so quickly with user adoption that it will become an indispensable, deeply integrated system essential to everyone at the customer's company. Console's goal is to eventually start supporting other functions, including answering employee requests about HR, finance, and legal. "We want Console to be an employee's first call for help," Serban said. This article originally appeared on TechCrunch at Sign in to access your portfolio
Geeky Gadgets
4 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Google Stitch vs Figma : Which Design Tool is Best for Your Team?
What if the design tool you choose could make or break your team's productivity? In the ever-evolving world of digital collaboration, selecting the right platform isn't just a technical decision—it's a strategic one. Enter Google Stitch and Figma, two standout contenders in the design space, each promising to transform the way teams create and collaborate. But while Google Stitch leans into simplicity and seamless integration with Google Workspace, Figma offers a powerhouse of advanced features tailored for professional designers. The question is: which one truly fits your team's needs? The answer lies in understanding how these tools align with your workflow, expertise, and creative goals. Jules AI Lab explores the nuanced battle between minimalism and depth, ease of use and flexibility, and basic functionality versus innovative innovation. You'll uncover how Google Stitch's intuitive design makes it a natural choice for teams prioritizing simplicity, while Figma's robust capabilities cater to those tackling complex, design-heavy projects. Whether you're a small business looking for streamlined solutions or a creative team seeking unparalleled precision, this comparison will help you weigh the benefits of each platform. After all, the right tool isn't just about features—it's about empowering your team to work smarter, faster, and more collaboratively. Google Stitch vs Figma What Are Google Stitch and Figma? Google Stitch is a relatively new entrant in the design tool market, seamlessly integrating with Google's ecosystem. It is designed with simplicity in mind, making it an excellent choice for teams already using Google Workspace. Its focus on straightforward functionality ensures that users can quickly adapt without a steep learning curve. Figma, by contrast, is a well-established platform widely recognized in the design industry. Known for its robust feature set and real-time collaboration capabilities, Figma has become a favorite among professional designers and creative teams. Its versatility and depth make it a go-to tool for handling complex design projects. Key Features: Simplicity vs. Depth The core features of Google Stitch and Figma highlight their differing priorities, catering to distinct user needs: Google Stitch: Emphasizes simplicity and seamless integration with Google Workspace. Its user-friendly tools are ideal for teams that need basic design capabilities without investing significant time in training or onboarding. Emphasizes simplicity and seamless integration with Google Workspace. Its user-friendly tools are ideal for teams that need basic design capabilities without investing significant time in training or onboarding. Figma: Offers a comprehensive suite of advanced features, including vector editing, prototyping, and developer handoff. These tools are particularly valuable for professional designers managing intricate projects that demand precision and creativity. If your team requires advanced functionality and creative flexibility, Figma is the clear choice. However, for teams prioritizing ease of use and integration within Google's ecosystem, Google Stitch provides a practical and efficient solution. Which Design Tool Will Transform Your Team? Watch this video on YouTube. Here are additional guides from our expansive article library that you may find useful on Google AI apps. User Interface: Minimalism vs. Customization The user interface (UI) of a design tool plays a pivotal role in shaping the user experience and overall workflow: Google Stitch: Features a clean, minimalistic UI that aligns with Google's design philosophy. This simplicity makes it highly accessible for beginners but may feel limiting for experienced designers seeking more advanced customization options. Features a clean, minimalistic UI that aligns with Google's design philosophy. This simplicity makes it highly accessible for beginners but may feel limiting for experienced designers seeking more advanced customization options. Figma: Delivers a more complex interface with extensive customization options and shortcuts. While it may take time to master, this flexibility enables experienced users to work efficiently on detailed and intricate projects. For teams with varying levels of expertise, Figma's customizable interface can be a significant advantage. Conversely, Google Stitch's streamlined design ensures a straightforward experience, particularly for teams that value simplicity over complexity. Collaboration: Real-Time Editing at Its Best Both Google Stitch and Figma excel in fostering collaboration, but their approaches differ in scope and execution: Google Stitch: Uses Google's robust cloud infrastructure to enable seamless sharing and real-time editing. Teams already using Google Drive will find its integration particularly beneficial, making sure smooth transitions between tools. Uses Google's robust cloud infrastructure to enable seamless sharing and real-time editing. Teams already using Google Drive will find its integration particularly beneficial, making sure smooth transitions between tools. Figma: Sets the benchmark for collaborative design with its multiplayer editing feature. Multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously without lag. Additional features like version control, threaded comments, and detailed project history enhance team workflows, especially for distributed or remote teams. While Google Stitch is a strong choice for teams embedded in Google's ecosystem, Figma's advanced collaboration tools make it indispensable for larger teams or those with a design-centric focus. Who Should Use Google Stitch or Figma? The choice between Google Stitch and Figma ultimately depends on your team's specific needs, expertise, and workflow requirements: Google Stitch: Best suited for smaller teams or businesses that prioritize simplicity and integration with Google Workspace. It is particularly effective for organizations where design is a secondary focus within broader workflows. Best suited for smaller teams or businesses that prioritize simplicity and integration with Google Workspace. It is particularly effective for organizations where design is a secondary focus within broader workflows. Figma: Tailored for professional designers and creative teams requiring advanced design capabilities. Its versatility makes it ideal for UI/UX design, prototyping, and other complex design tasks that demand precision and collaboration. For teams that are design-centric or handle intricate projects, Figma's depth and flexibility are likely to meet your needs. On the other hand, for teams seeking a lightweight, integrated solution, Google Stitch offers a straightforward and efficient option. Making the Right Choice Both Google Stitch and Figma bring valuable features to the table, but their strengths cater to different audiences. Google Stitch excels in simplicity and integration, making it an excellent fit for teams already using Google Workspace. Its intuitive design ensures that users can quickly adapt and focus on their tasks without unnecessary complexity. Figma, on the other hand, stands out for its advanced design tools and unparalleled collaboration features. It is the preferred choice for professional designers and creative teams who require a versatile platform capable of handling complex projects with precision and efficiency. By carefully evaluating your team's priorities, expertise, and workflow requirements, you can confidently select the platform that aligns with your goals. Whether you choose Google Stitch or Figma, both tools have the potential to enhance your design and collaboration processes, empowering your team to achieve its objectives effectively. Media Credit: Jules AI Lab Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Hans India
7 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
From sketch to screen: Explore a career in web design
The digital world is expanding rapidly, and with it, the need for well-designed, user-friendly websites is higher than ever. At the heart of this transformation are web designers—professionals who blend creativity, design thinking, and technical skills to build engaging digital experiences. From small business websites to large-scale e-commerce platforms, web designers shape how we see and use the internet. A web designer is responsible for the layout, visual appearance, and usability of a website. They ensure the site is not only visually appealing but also easy to navigate, accessible, and aligned with the client's or company's brand identity. Designers often work with tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch to create prototypes and wireframes before turning them into fully functional websites with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, sometimes collaborating closely with web developers. Skills you need To succeed as a web designer, students should build a mix of technical and creative skills, including: • Graphic design principles • Typography and color theory • Responsive design and mobile-first layouts • Basic coding (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) • User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design Additionally, soft skills like communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving are vital when working with clients or cross-functional teams. Top courses for aspiring web designers There are many online and offline courses that can help students get started. Some top-rated options include: • Google UX Design Certificate (Coursera) • UI/UX Design Specialization by CalArts (Coursera) • Web Design for Everybody (University of Michigan, edX) • Responsive Web Design Certification (freeCodeCamp) • UI Design Course (Interaction Design Foundation) Design institutes and universities also offer diploma and degree programs in web or graphic design. Career Opportunities Web designers can work in many settings: • Freelance/Consulting: Designing for multiple clients on a project basis. • Startups and Tech Companies: Building user-facing websites and apps. • Advertising and Marketing Agencies: Creating campaign landing pages and branded experiences. • Corporate Design Teams: Managing internal and public-facing websites. As you grow, you may specialize further into UX design, UI design, product design, or creative direction. Web design is ideal for students who enjoy both art and technology. It offers: • A creative outlet with tangible results • Remote work and freelance options • Cross-industry demand, from fashion to finance • Opportunities to continuously learn and grow A career in web design offers the perfect balance between creativity and technology. For students who love to create, solve problems, and shape user experiences, this is an exciting and future-proof path. With the right skills and mindset, web design can be more than just a job—it can be a creative journey that evolves with the digital world.
