techlist.io
KREN
figma

FigJam for iPad: space to explore and ideate | Figma Blog (opens in new tab)

figmafigjamandroidcollaborative-designiosipaddigital-whiteboard

FigJam for iPad was introduced to make brainstorming and collaboration more fluid across devices. The article argues that tablets’ focused, tactile nature complements FigJam’s infinite canvas, especially for sketching, exploring early ideas, and giving visual feedback. Although the standalone iPad app is being retired in 2026, FigJam remains available through the Figma app and the web.

Why Tablets Suit FigJam

  • Desktop workflows often interrupt creative focus with notifications and constant context switching.
  • Tablets provide a more focused, single-app environment.
  • The iPad’s portability and touch or pen input make it feel similar to working in a notebook.
  • FigJam’s open canvas naturally supports freeform drawing, doodling, annotations, and low-fidelity exploration.
  • Users can move fluidly between desktop and tablet depending on the task.

Embracing Early Ideas

  • Low-fidelity sketches make nonlinear exploration and iteration easier.
  • Rough ideas encourage collaboration rather than inviting narrow critique.
  • Users can sketch concepts on an iPad, then continue refining or sharing them from a laptop.
  • Team members can draw directly over one another’s ideas, making ideation more interactive.

Making Feedback More Personal

  • Handwritten annotations can complement or replace traditional comments.
  • Users can circle, underline, and mark up text, diagrams, and sketches directly on the canvas.
  • Visual and handwritten feedback creates a warmer, more collaborative experience than written critique alone.

Running Collaborative Sessions

  • The iPad can support group workshops as well as individual work.
  • Facilitators can display a FigJam file on a desktop screen while using the iPad for live annotations.
  • Quick actions—such as circling stickies or highlighting contributions—make meetings feel more natural and fluid.

Figma positioned FigJam for iPad as an early step toward richer tablet-based design workflows. For current users, FigJam is available through the Figma mobile app or the web; the standalone iPad app is scheduled for retirement on January 8, 2026.