As the design landscape continues to evolve, AI is no longer just a futuristic concept—it’s a practical part of the creative process. At Helio, we’re always exploring tools that help designers work more efficiently while keeping their artistic vision intact.
Here are the top 5 AI creative tools every designer should try in 2025:
1. Adobe Firefly – AI That Feels Like Magic for Designers
Part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud, Firefly helps designers generate images, stylize text, and manipulate content with natural language prompts. Whether you’re prototyping or polishing final artwork, Firefly speeds up the design process without replacing your eye for detail.
Best for: Photo editing, typography effects, concepting
Helio tip: Use Firefly’s Generative Fill in Photoshop to clean up comps fast.
2. Runway ML Gen-3 – Text-to-Video for Motion Designers
For designers working in motion, Runway’s Gen-3 model delivers mind-blowing results. Simply type a description and get short, cinematic video clips in seconds—perfect for concept pitches, social ads, or dynamic web banners.
Best for: Motion graphics, storyboards, creative prototyping
Helio tip: Use it to rough out transitions or backgrounds before jumping into After Effects.
3. ChatGPT (GPT-4o) – Your Creative Sidekick with Vision
The new GPT-4o model isn’t just text-based—it understands visuals too. Designers can drop in screenshots, ask for layout suggestions, generate alt text, or even write UX copy. Bonus: it can talk and respond in real time.
Best for: Naming ideas, design critiques, layout analysis
Helio tip: Use it to explain your visual concepts to clients with more clarity.
4. ElevenLabs – Pro Voiceovers for UI and Portfolio Videos
Turn text into studio-quality voiceovers with ElevenLabs. Ideal for designers creating app demos, explainer videos, or case study reels, it offers natural, expressive voice generation in multiple languages.
Best for: UI demo narration, motion case studies
Helio tip: Pair this with Figma prototypes to create voice-guided walkthroughs.
5. Canva Magic Studio – Speedy Content Creation for Non-Design Tasks
While it’s built for everyday creators, Magic Studio is a handy addition for designers managing social content. Use AI-powered tools like Magic Write or Magic Resize to draft posts, adjust visuals, or build pitch decks in record time.
Best for: Quick mockups, brand presentations, pitch visuals
Helio tip: Use it to prep internal assets or iterate brand concepts with clients in real time.
Why This Matters for Designers
These tools don’t replace creativity—they enhance it. They reduce time spent on repetitive tasks, spark new ideas, and make it easier to collaborate with clients, developers, and teams. At Helio, we believe AI empowers designers to spend more time doing what they love: creating.
Ready to bring AI into your creative workflow?
Let’s talk about how AI can streamline your design process and elevate your brand experience. Contact the Helio team today.
