Adobe XD Transitions Merge Into After Effects via New Tethering Protocol

Design · 4 min read

The new protocol exports XD timelines and easing curves to After Effects compositions, preserving symbols, masks, and relative timings so animators can iterate without rebuilding keyframes.

Designers can hand off a prototype with an annotated timeline; After Effects receives a layered composition with named assets and a suggested motion pass. The workflow reduces friction between UX prototyping and production motion work.

Adobe said the protocol supports round-tripping: adjustments in After Effects can be exported back as reference assets for XD, helping teams iterate across fidelity levels faster. This strengthens Adobe's narrative of connected creative apps.