After backlash, Adobe cancels Adobe Animate shutdown and puts app on 'maintenance mode'

Adobe Animate will be discontinued on March 1, 2026, as Adobe shifts its focus to AI.

Adobe Ends Animate’s 30-Year Run as AI Steals the Spotlight

Adobe has expanded its generative AI strategy aggressively over the past two years, integrating AI into tools such as After Effects and Adobe Express.
PCMag on MSN

Adobe reverses decision to shut down Animate after backlash

Adobe will now put the 2D animation software in maintenance mode, meaning it will only receive bug fixes, not new features.

“There goes four years of schooling”: Animators across the industry react to Adobe Animate shutting down (UPDATED)

The announcement, posted on the Adobe forums, spread quickly as 2D animators made their frustration with the company known.
Tech Times

Adobe Animate Reversal: Company Apologises After Shocking Shutdown Confusion

Less than 24 hours after announcing it's taking down Animate, Adobe Senior Director posted on Reddit saying the decision has been reversed ...