Figma Adds AI Prototyping, Shifts to Paid Credits
Figma is advancing its generative design capabilities, allowing users to create complex UI flows and live code prototypes with conversational AI, including integrations with Anthropic's Claude Code. Social media discussions highlight a new feature, possibly called MCP, for refining AI prototypes. The company's business model is also evolving, with AI credits set to be sold as add-ons starting in March.
- The feature referred to as MCP is the Model Context Protocol, an underlying technology that allows AI agents to access the structural data of a Figma file—including components, design tokens, and auto-layout rules—rather than just its visual appearance. This protocol powers the new "Code to Canvas" workflow that allows for the conversion of AI-generated code into editable designs. - The new credit system, with limits enforced starting March 18, 2026, allocates a monthly, non-transferable allowance of credits to each user that does not roll over. Seat allowances vary by plan, with Full seats on the Professional plan receiving 3,000 credits per month, while users on the free Starter plan get 500. - For teams or freelancers who exceed their monthly individual credit allowance, additional credits can be purchased. Starting March 11, 2026, administrators can buy a shared pool
