Oct 11, 2023

This 142 year old invention revolutionized photography...

TODAY IS SLOW NEWS DAY

Good morning. Here’s what’s happening today in design: Adobe AI can do vectors now; Images to get “icon of transparency”; GSAP gets a redesign; An AI playbook for design teams; Influencing UX with brain science; Toyota’s archive of cool concepts; X swaps birdhouse for lifeless home icon; A list of resources for web animation; A few layers go a long way in Spline; iOS Wallet icon alternative; A ‘swift’ bill splitting UI—built in Swift.

TODAY IN DESIGN 1881

The Reel Revolution: David Houston's Roll Film Patent.

On this day, David Houston, a lesser-known but pivotal figure in photographic history, secured a patent that would lay the groundwork for a seismic shift in photography. By introducing the concept of roll film, Houston transformed the way photographers captured the world, making the process more accessible and versatile.

Before this innovation, photography was a cumbersome affair, involving heavy equipment and plates. Houston's roll film design streamlined the process, enabling quicker shooting and greater portability. This technological leap not only democratized photography but also spurred the evolution of cameras, leading to the development of the iconic Kodak camera by George Eastman, who licensed Houston's designs. As we reflect on this day, it's evident that Houston's roll film was more than just a design; it was the catalyst that brought photography into the hands of the masses, forever changing the way we document and view our world.

NEWS

Adobe Firefly’s generative AI models can now create vector graphics in Illustrator
Illustrator is Adobe’s vector graphics tool for graphic artists and it’s about to join the generative AI era with the launch of the Firefly…

Adobe released a super icon to combat misinformation. It may just confuse things more
A new ‘icon of transparency’ is here to certify real images and brands from forgeries and AI creations. It has high-profile partners…

GSAP (GreenSock Animation Platform) gets a fun redesign
The popular animation library gets a brand new home with lots of fun little details. Check it out!

EVENTS

AI Playbook for Design Teams—Oct 18
This playbook contains a curated set of tools to help you develop a plan to lead your team into the future. Because here’s the reality…

ARTICLES

How UX designers can use brain science to influence user experience
Understanding the science behind the fine art of balancing users’ attention and intention.

Toyota Reveals Archive of Cool Concepts for Calty Design Studio's Anniversary
Such curiosities as an MX-2, which could have been an Acura NSX rival, see the light of day as Toyota celebrates 50 years of its California design center.

DISCUSSIONS

X changed the home icon
Ditching the birdhouse for something more ‘on-brand’, X has replaced the home icon.

RESOURCES

The ultimate resource list for web animation
Ashwin Pradeep Kumar puts together a solid list of web animation resources and articles. Share your own!

LIKES

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