Affinity announced the availability of its iPad applications Designer 2 Photo 2 and Publisher 2 for free download through the Apple App Store. Previously these applications required a one time purchase of $18.49 each following an initial seven day trial period. The decision removes the in app purchase option entirely allowing users to access full functionality without cost. This development occurs ahead of a scheduled announcement with Canva Affinity’s parent company on October 30 2025. The applications remain compatible with iPadOS 15.0 and subsequent versions supporting features such as vector design photo editing and page layout. Existing owners of the applications will retain access to their licensed versions while new users can download immediately.
For those of you who are not yet aware, Affinity offers three core applications for creative professionals: Designer for vector graphics and illustration Photo for image editing and Publisher for layout and desktop publishing. These iPad versions provide touchscreen optimized interfaces that mirror the desktop counterparts supporting features like layer management non destructive edits and export options in formats such as PDF PSD and EPS.
The V2 releases introduced enhancements including improved brush engines expanded font support and hardware acceleration for Apple Silicon devices. Developed by Serif and acquired by Canva in 2024 the suite has positioned itself as a cost effective alternative to subscription based tools like Adobe Creative Cloud. The applications install in trial mode by default but the removal of the purchase wall grants perpetual access without time limits or feature restrictions.
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What you need to know about the Free offering
The free status applies specifically to the iPad editions of Affinity Designer 2 Photo 2 and Publisher 2 available via direct download from the App Store. Users encounter no payment prompts or subscription requirements upon installation and activation. The applications include all V2 features such as Affinity’s non destructive editing workflows color management tools and integration with Apple Pencil for precise input. File compatibility remains full supporting import and export across desktop mobile and web platforms.
No additional in app purchases or upsells are present in these versions. The change does not affect the desktop editions which are currently unavailable for new purchases pending the October 30 announcement. iPad users can download all three applications separately each occupying approximately 1 to 2 GB of storage depending on the model. This offering extends to all regions including India where the App Store lists the applications at no cost.
This announcement comes just before the ‘major’ announcement that Affinity is preparing to make later this month, and I suspect, they are going to absolutely change the game. It is unheard of for a company to offer the latest version of its creative suite away for free like this, and it can happen if the company is planning to shut down or they are planning to announce something BIG, and in case of Affinity, given that they just recently got acquired by Canva, I am betting on the latter.
