Component properties get a round of upgrades

Figma has opened a public beta for the next wave of component properties, building on the foundation introduced at Config 2022. The update focuses on giving design system teams more control and simplifying how contributors interact with shared components.

The beta introduces three key capabilities:

  • Preferred values, which let component authors define a curated set of options that appear when swapping an instance.
  • Exposed nested instances, allowing users to adjust properties of an instance’s nested children directly from the parent level without drilling down into layers.
  • Simplified instances, which hides non-essential layers and details in subsequent instances so designers see only the editable elements.

These changes are aimed at streamlining how large teams manage and consume design system components. Further details are available in the official beta documentation.

Attach files to Google Calendar events

A new Chrome extension brings Figma and FigJam files directly into Google Calendar. Instead of copying and pasting links between tabs, users can search for and attach a design or whiteboard file to any calendar event while staying in the calendar view. The extension is available for install from the Chrome Web Store.

Schema returns with in-person sessions

Figma’s design systems conference, Schema, is expanding beyond its virtual format this year. In addition to the online program, the event will host live sessions in New York, Tokyo, and London. Registration is now open for all formats; the sessions are designed for design systems leaders to share practices and connect with peers.

Template library grows past 300 entries

Figma and FigJam now offer more than 300 templates for common workflows and team activities. The library is searchable by use case or role, covering everything from early-stage planning to recurring rituals. A few highlighted additions include a brand guideline template, a product development roadmap template, and a team meeting agenda template, each demonstrating a different stage of the design and collaboration process.

The full set of templates can be browsed on the template gallery. For a complete list of changes, release notes are available.