Serif’s latest update to the Affinity suite—version 2.6—has arrived, bringing a host of new features designed to make your creative process smoother than a freshly rendered CGI scene. This free update is available to all current V2 users and covers Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher. If you own the complete package, remember to update each app individually to enjoy the full spectrum of enhancements.
Affinity 2.6: Smarter Selections, Sharper Workflow
Serif’s Affinity 2.6 update brings machine learning-powered selection tools, an upgraded RAW engine, and workflow refinements across Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher. The ML Object Selection Tool intelligently detects objects, handles multi-part selections, and allows fine-tuned edge matting, working on both image and RAW layers. The ML Select Subject feature automatically isolates primary subjects and can be recorded as a macro for batch workflows. These machine learning tools require Apple silicon (Mac/iPad) or x64/ARM64 architecture (Windows) with updated OS requirements.
Affinity Photo benefits from an updated SerifLabs RAW engine, adding support for new cameras like the Canon EOS R5 Mark II, Fujifilm GFX 100S II, Nikon Z 6 III, and Sony ZV-E10 II. Image and RAW layer handling has been improved: Merge Down and Inpainting now apply automatically, while pixel selections can be rasterized, masked, or duplicated with better control. The Flood Select, Marquee, and Freehand selection tools now use Shift to add and Alt to subtract, with anti-aliasing enabled by default. Other refinements include a Live Perspective filter shortcut (⌘/Ctrl + T), a centre-drawn Rectangular Marquee Tool, and better Colour Picker integration.
Affinity Designer and Publisher also receive practical upgrades. The Brush Panel now supports category-based search, making brush selection faster. Right-click options in the Layers Panel add Clear Mask and Fill Mask functions (desktop only), while the Inpainting and Patch tools remember previously used target layers. Multi-page spreads and page management tools in Publisher refine document layout workflows.
Affinity 2.6 is a free update for current V2 users, and the full suite remains available for a one-time purchase of $164.99. With these new AI-driven tools and usability refinements, production artists gain greater control and efficiency—but, as always, testing before deployment in critical projects is advised.
A Nod to Education and Nonprofits
In a move that would make anybody smile, Serif offers the entire Affinity suite free to eligible nonprofits and K-12 educators. This initiative aims to equip the next generation of creatives with professional-grade tools without breaking the bank.
Final Take
While these new features promise to enhance your workflow, it’s wise to test them thoroughly before integrating them into critical projects. After all, even the most advanced tools need a shakedown before the main shoot.
