After eight months of development, Akira, a vector graphics editor optimized for creating user interface layouts, was released. The program is written in the Vala language using the GTK library and distributed under the GPLv3 license. Builds will be available shortly in the form of elementary OS packages and snap formats. The interface is designed in accordance with the recommendations prepared by the elementary OS project, and is focused on high performance, intuitiveness and modern appearance.
The ultimate goal of the project is to create a professional tool for interface designers, somewhat like Sketch, Figma or Adobe XD, but focused on using Linux as the main platform. Unlike Glade and Qt Creator, Akira editor is not designed to generate code or work interfaces using certain toolkits, but is aimed at solving more general tasks, such as creating interface layouts, visualization and vector graphics. Akira does not overlap with Inkscape as Inkscape is primarily focused on print design rather than front-end development, and also differs in approach to workflow.
To save files, Akira uses its own ".akira" format, which is a zip archive with SVG files and a local git repository with changes. Export of images to SVG, JPG, PNG and PDF is supported. Akira renders each shape as a separate path with two levels of editing:
- The first level (shape editing) is activated when selected and provides facilities for typical transformations such as rotation, resizing, etc.
- The second level (path editing) allows you to move, add, and remove shape path nodes using Bezier curves, as well as close or break paths.
In the new release:
- The architecture of the library for working with the canvas has been completely redesigned.
- Implemented Pixel Grid editing mode for precise positioning of elements when zooming in. The grid is turned on by pressing the button in the panel and turns off automatically when the scale is set to less than 800%. The ability to customize the colors of the pixel grid lines is provided.
- Implemented support for guides to control snapping to the boundaries of existing shapes (Snapping Guides). Supports setting the color and threshold for the appearance of guides.
- Added support for resizing elements in all directions.
- Added the ability to add images via drag and drop from the Image Tool.
- Added the ability to process multiple fill and outline colors for each element.
- Added scaling mode for elements relative to the center.
- The ability to transfer images to the canvas is included.
- Implemented performance optimizations.
Source: opennet.ru