Canva launches Connect APIs to boost developer integrations

Canva has announced the launch of its Connect APIs, expanding its resources for developers and enhancing integration capabilities within its platform. The announcement marks one year since the launch of Canva's Developers Program, which has seen significant growth in the number of apps available in the Canva Apps Marketplace.

The new Connect APIs are designed to help businesses integrate Canva into their existing workflows, reducing the need for constant app switching and improving productivity. The integrations support various popular work platforms and custom data sources like Slack and Salesforce, allowing for seamless asset synchronisation and peer collaboration.

"With Canva's new Connect APIs, businesses can build integrations for teams to access and collaborate on Canva designs while working within other tools," Canva's Head of Ecosystem, Anwar Haneef, stated. "As enterprises seek ways to streamline their tools, Connect APIs can aid productivity and cut down on app-switching."

Canva has introduced several specific APIs to support integration. These include the Design API, Export API, Asset API, and Folder API endpoints, allowing users to manage, access, and edit their assets through various platforms. In addition, the new Autofill API endpoint enables users to automate processes by pulling in business data, imagery, and other assets from third-party systems to generate custom designs efficiently. The Brand Templates API then allows users to create bespoke, on-brand designs with a single click.

To further enhance collaboration, the new Comment API and Notification webhook events API enable users to manage Canva notifications, comments, and action tasks directly from their platforms. This integration aims to streamline workflows and reduce the need for users to switch between different software solutions.

The new functionalities come alongside a range of new resources for app builders, including APIs for image, video, and text editing. The image editing APIs encompass Selection and Image Overlays APIs. For video editing, the Selection API for Video allows apps to read and replace video content. Text editing APIs provide functionalities to add, read, or replace text using Fonts and Rich Text APIs.

Canva has also introduced a new Partner Program aimed at supporting developers in creating and commercialising apps. The program offers tools, guides, and marketing support to help bring new products to market. Developers can access resources such as API documentation, technical support, and app usage analytics to track their success.

"Design is at the heart of everything Canva does, and that extends to the developer community," the company stated. "Throughout the app design process, the platform's design reviewers provide detailed, personalised guidance and advice to ensure developers can produce the highest-quality apps."

Canva is also hosting its first-ever Summer Hackathon, inviting developers to compete for USD $50,000 in investments by creating new solutions using the Connect APIs. The hackathon will take place online, culminating in a chance for participants to showcase their innovations.