We are relaxing our restriction on export only apps for a specific surface in Canva. Export-only experiences will be allowed when an app integrates via the Content Publisher intent, while the Design Editor left panel will remain focused on creation tools. An update to the Developer Terms and policy docs will follow shortly.
In short
- Publishing surfaces - export-only is allowed
You can start building a Content Publisher intent experience now, and release to the marketplace early next year when the API moves into GA. - Design surfaces - export on its own is not allowed (no change from today)
What is changing
- Content Publisher intent
- Apps in the Share menu that use Content Publisher intent can now be export-only.
- They must still meet all Content Publisher intent contracts, UX expectations, and App Review requirements.
- Design Editor intent
- Apps in the left hand panel cannot be export-only.
- They must provide meaningful design functionality, with export as an optional part of that flow.
What you should do
- If you are planning an export-only integration, design it for the Content Publisher intent in the Share menu.
- If your Design Editor app is effectively export only, start planning a move to Content Publisher intent or adding real design functionality. Intents are designed to work together within a single app, so you can use the Content Publisher intent seamlessly with the Design Editor intent - even with shared authentication.
- Watch for a formal update in the Developer Terms and policy pages soon - that will be the version App Review uses.
We are excited to unlock more powerful publishing integrations while keeping the Canva editor focused on helping everyone design.
