Adobe Indesign 2024 20.0 Guide
HarfBuzz as default shaper
Export improvements
Search & replace enhancements
UX refinements
Apple Silicon native (continued)
For those working in collaborative environments where team members use different versions of the software, InDesign 2024 offers better handling of IDML (InDesign Markup Language) files. The new version improves the stability of opening legacy files and ensures that documents saved as IDML are less likely to crash or lose formatting when opened in older versions of the software.
Adobe has shifted its release strategy. While previous versions focused on stability, Version 20.0 is a feature-driven release. The headline features include: Adobe InDesign 2024 20.0
Rating: 4.2 / 5
Best for: Professional publishers, layout designers, and agencies already in the Adobe ecosystem.
Not for: Casual users or those needing real-time collaboration like Figma/Canva.
Adobe has removed the old "Properties" panel in favor of a floating Contextual Task Bar. HarfBuzz as default shaper
When you select a text box, the bar floats above it showing only: Font, Size, Leading, and Alignment. When you select an image, it shows: Fit Options, Opacity, and the new "Generate Fill."
This minimalist approach reduces screen clutter. If you miss the old panels, you can revert via Window > Workspace > Classic InDesign. Export improvements
