Last updated: March 5th, 2026
*Please note: The release of the new version is now scheduled for June 2026.
We want to share important updates about changes coming to ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud, plugin for Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop that enables designing with authoritative maps from ArcGIS Pro or content in an ArcGIS organization.
As part of our ongoing efforts to simplify the experience and better support collaboration between GIS and graphic design teams, we will be deprecating select capabilities to focus on delivering a more simplified and unified user experience in Adobe Illustrator.
What’s Changing?
Starting in November 2026, support will end for:
- The Enrich Layer (Add Demographic Data) tool in Illustrator
- All plugin workflows in Photoshop
The final version to include these features will be ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud 3.9, released in May 2025. After this release, the 3.9 version of the product will be referred to as "Classic."
Why Are We Making This Change?
ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud has long supported the integration of GIS and design across ArcGIS and Adobe Creativity apps. However, as user needs evolve, especially with stronger integration between ArcGIS and Adobe Illustrator, this shift allows us to streamline the experience and focus on capabilities that provide the greatest value to collaborative GIS and design teams.
By simplifying the product and aligning it more closely with other ArcGIS apps, we’re laying the groundwork for a more intuitive and scalable future.
Important Dates & Final Support
- May 2025: Final release of the Classic version (3.9)
- June 2026: New Version of ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud available
- November 2026: End of support for Classic, including Enrich Layer and Photoshop workflows
What to Expect in the New Version
In June 2026, we’ll introduce a new version of ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud focused exclusively on Illustrator, where most users conduct their design work. This version will continue to support many of the essential capabilities you rely on today, while also providing:
- A simplified user experience
- A modernized interface aligned with other ArcGIS applications
- Improved performance and workflows for collaboration between GIS and design teams
If you're currently using the plugin with Photoshop, we recommend using Illustrator’s export and conversion tools to bring ArcGIS-based map content into Photoshop.
Supporting Your Transition
To help with your transition:
- Version 3.9 will be supported through November 2026
- Transition resources will be made available with the new update. Additionally contact Esri account representative for more information.
Answering Your Questions
Can I open an Illustrator file in Photoshop?
Yes. ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud version 3.9 is the last version of the extension to support Photoshop. However, you can still create a file with the extension in Illustrator and open the file in Photoshop.
To be able to open an Adobe Illustrator (.ai) file with Photoshop, you must make the file PDF compatible when you save it. In Illustrator, click Save or Save As, choose Adobe Illustrator (*.AI) for the file type, then click Save. In the Illustrator Options window that appears, check the Create PDF Compatible File check box.
Support For Your Questions
We understand that changes to your workflow take planning, and we’re here to help. Please reach out to your Esri account representative with any questions or support needs.
Thank you for your continued trust in ArcGIS Maps for Adobe Creative Cloud. We’re excited to deliver a more focused and collaborative experience.
