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✦ Free & open sourceGraphic Design

Akira

Native Linux UI and UX design app built in Vala and GTK, in early development.

A native design app for Linux

GTK vector design tool aimed at web and graphic designers.

Free forever · open source · GPL-3.0
✓ Light setup✓ Browser-based✓ Real-time collaboration
5.8
ZEKAI
Linux alpha design app
Free & open source · Graphic Design
Ease of setup6
Usefulness4
Maintenance5.5
Community7.5
★ 5,346
GITHUB
Dec 2025
UPDATED
GPL-3.0
LICENSE
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⚡ Quick answer

Akira is a native Linux design application for UI and UX work, built in Vala and GTK. It suits Linux users who want a native Figma-style app and accept alpha software.

Runs on
Cross-platform
Hosting
Desktop
Languages
Vala
License
GPL-3.0

What it is

The README says it offers a modern, fast approach to UI and UX design, mainly for web and graphic designers who use Linux as their main OS. It installs from elementary AppCenter or Flathub beta.

Who it's for

It suits Linux desktop users who want to follow an open design tool. It does not suit teams on Windows or macOS, or anyone needing production reliability; the README warns it is not ready for production.

Key features

Native GTK app

Built in Vala and GTK for Linux desktops.

UI and UX focus

Aimed at web and graphic designers.

Flathub beta install

Install through a Flatpak beta remote.

elementary AppCenter

Also listed on the elementary OS AppCenter.

Compile from source

Meson and Ninja build with listed dependencies.

GPL-3.0 source

Licence file is the GNU GPL version 3.

How to start

Up and running in 3 steps

1
Add the Flathub beta remote with flatpak remote-add.
2
Run flatpak install akira.
3
Open Akira and start a new artboard.
Real talk

Our honest verdict

What's great

  • Native Linux performance rather than a browser app.
  • Easy Flatpak install.
  • GPL-3.0 keeps the source open.
  • Commits continued through December 2025.

Where it falls short

  • Linux only.
  • README says early development and not ready for production.
  • Last tagged release was 2021, and commits are sparse.
Cost

Pricing & license

Akira is free under GPL-3.0. The project takes donations through Liberapay and Patreon; no paid plan is shown.

Paid work

Open remote AI-training roles

768 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.

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Questions

FAQ

Does Akira run on Windows or macOS?

No. The README describes a native Linux app.

Is Akira ready for production work?

The README says it is in early development and not ready for production.

Is Akira free?

Yes, under GPL-3.0.

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