Figma adds local-first editing mode and conflict-free merging for large teams

Design · 5 min read

Figma's new local-first mode caches active documents on the user's device and applies edits locally before synchronizing changes with the cloud. The company says this improves responsiveness in large files and enables meaningful offline work without session interruptions.

A conflict-free merge algorithm (CRDT-based) resolves simultaneous edits to the same frame or component by preserving intent and providing a visual audit trail of merged decisions. Designers can inspect branch diffs and optionally accept or revert specific changes.

Figma targeted the update at enterprise customers who reported collaboration bottlenecks on large design systems. Admins gain controls to set sync windows and to prioritize certain resource types during synchronization to preserve bandwidth.