The InDesign Beta has introduced a powerful new feature: real-time co-editing. This means that multiple designers, editors, or content creators can now work on the same document simultaneously—without the fear of overwriting each other’s changes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to use it.
🧰 Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- ✅ Adobe InDesign Beta (downloadable from the Creative Cloud desktop app)
- ✅ A Creative Cloud subscription
- ✅ A Cloud Document, not a local
.inddfile - ✅ Collaborators with an Adobe ID
🧭 Step-by-Step: Co-Edit a Document in Real Time
1. Save as a Cloud Document
- Go to:
File > Save As > Save to Creative Cloud - Give your document a name.
- Cloud documents end in
.inddbut are stored in your Adobe cloud storage.
2. Click “Share” and Choose “Invite to Edit”
- Find the Share icon in the top-right of your screen.
- Choose “Invite to Edit”.
- Enter your team members’ Adobe IDs (email addresses used for Creative Cloud).
3. Set Permissions
- You can assign roles:
- Editor: Full co-editing access
- Viewer: View-only mode
4. Start Co-Editing
- Your collaborators open the same file from “Your Files > Cloud Documents”.
- You’ll see who is active in the file (presence indicators).
- Changes are saved in real time and synced across all users.
👀 What You’ll See in Real Time
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| ✍️ Live Cursors | See where other users are working. |
| 📝 Simultaneous Edits | Add text, adjust layout, or insert graphics concurrently. |
| 💬 Review + Edit in One | Combine feedback and layout changes in one session. |
| 🔄 Auto-Save + Versioning | InDesign handles version control behind the scenes. |
⚠️ Things to Watch Out For
While the beta is robust, there are a few quirks to keep in mind:
- Scripts and extensions may not fully support cloud co-editing.
- Network latency can cause short syncing delays.
- Files must be opened from Creative Cloud, not from your local drive.
💡 Pro Tips for Team Editing
- Use Styles: Paragraph and character styles ensure consistent formatting between users.
- Split Work: One person manages layout while another inputs content.
- Add Comments: Use the Review tools to tag specific changes or leave notes.
- Name Versions: Regularly save checkpoints via File > Save a Copy.
🔒 Is It Safe?
Yes. Adobe’s Creative Cloud automatically:
- Syncs changes
- Tracks version history
- Allows you to revert to earlier versions if something goes wrong
You can also remove collaborators at any time from the Share menu.
🧠 Why This Matters
This update eliminates the need for file handoffs, endless exports, or saving five versions of the same layout. It unlocks live team design workflows—ideal for:
- Design agencies
- Publishing teams
- Marketing departments
- Remote freelancers collaborating with clients
👉 Try Adobe InDesign free for 7 days — Start your trial today.
