Features:

• Create vector-based graphics for the Web, emerging media, and print
• Keep file sizes small and manage repeating graphics with new symbolism tools
• Bend, stretch, and twist design elements and retain editability
• Generate custom artwork variations using dynamic data-driven graphics
• Optimize Web graphics with object-based slicing and cascading style sheet layers

While Adobe Illustrator has traditionally been reserved for the print and prepress marketplace, recent versions have targeted a broader audience, including a growing contingent of new-school Web designers. With the latest incarnation of Illustrator, Adobe aims to please both print and prepress designers, as well as cutting-edge Web designer communities. If you're looking for a greater Web focus from your vector graphics program, look no further than Illustrator 10.

For those concerned about Illustrator becoming too Web focused, don't fret. All of Illustrator's previously existing drawing and text tools remain intact. Version 10 also introduces improved tools for drawing lines, arcs, and grids. These new drawing tools will maximize your productivity and provide an easy way to create the shapes you want.

In addition to the new drawing tools, Adobe has jumped on the graphics symbol bandwagon by allowing users to save any text object or graphic object as a symbol. Once objects are saved in the Symbol palette, they can be reused infinitely, thus providing easier management of files and decreased file size. Users will fall in love with the simple drag-and-drop usability of the symbols, while the newly added Symbol Sprayer lets you easily add multiple instances of a symbol directly into the document.

Adobe has also undertaken the task of minimizing the monotony of tedious and repetitive design tasks. By taking advantage of Illustrator-supported scripting languages, users can easily automate repetitive tasks by writing scripts directly in Illustrator. Any of the three popular scripting languages--Visual Basic Script, JavaScript, or AppleScript--can be used. When creating a design, users can assign a text object or graphic object to a variable. These variables can then pull information from any ODBC-compliant database. With this type of power, users can easily create templates for documents such as Web pages or product catalogs.

In this latest version of Illustrator 10, Adobe has managed to enhance its existing drawing tools with powerful productivity aids. By focusing on important workflow, productivity, and database-connectivity features, Adobe has given the user more time to explore new creative possibilities.

System requirements:

• Pentium II, III, 4, or faster processor
• Microsoft Windows 98, 98 SE, 2000 SP2, Me, or XP
• 128 MB RAM
• 180 MB hard disk space
• CD-ROM drive
• 256-color display with 800 x 600 or higher resolution
• Mouse
• Adobe PostScript Level 2 or higher required for printers using Adobe PostScript