Over the years, Figma seems to be inching closer and closer to a low-code front-end dev tool. Variables, auto-layout, and dev mode all seem to be hinting at it.
However, this year at Figma’s Config conference, they opted for AI features instead of code. Was that just to ride the AI wave? What hurdles does Figma need to clear to be a low-code front-end dev tool?

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The Dev Craft

Figma appears to be moving towards being a low-code front-end development tool with features such as variables, auto-layout, and dev mode. However, at this year's Config conference, they focused on AI capabilities instead of coding options. The post questions whether this was influenced by the current AI trend and what obstacles Figma needs to overcome to become a full-fledged low-code front-end tool.

When will Figma be a front-end dev tool?

I think it’s only a matter of time. Lots of pressure right now from investors to add AI so it makes sense it’s the priority.

They’re getting closer but I gotta say, I’m not a fan of the paid dev mode or needing a paid plan to use Figma in VSCode.
Edited to add: I’m more apt to use Penpot than Figma for the low-code aspect w/o a paid plan.

I don’t know, he wasn’t born for this and usually when you try to force things it doesn’t come out well, but I’m probably wrong

Have a look at Framer, you can already import web layouts directly into it from Figma