During this era, Adobe standardized the user interfaces across Illustrator and Photoshop, creating the cross-platform workflow designers use today. 1997: Adobe Illustrator 7.0 Macintosh, Windows

Version 2.0 (Pinnacle) – The first version released for Windows, though it struggled against established competitors like CorelDRAW.

Named for its release year, this version introduced many new tools and features to compete with Aldus FreeHand.

– Focused on user interface improvements, including the "Eraser" tool and better isolation mode.

Allowed design teams to share color palettes and assets instantly. 2016: Adobe Illustrator CC 2017 (Version 21)

Upgraded color blending and visual styling.

This version was optimized for Intel-based Macs. It introduced Live Color (an interactive color wheels panel for easy recoloring), the Eraser tool , and seamless integration with Adobe Flash. 2008: Adobe Illustrator CS4 (Version 14) Key Milestone: Multi-page layout capability.

Integrated into the ; added 3D effects and OpenType support. 2005 CS2 (v12) Added Live Trace , Live Paint, and Adobe Bridge support. 2007 CS3 (v13)

First release for Microsoft Windows (initially unsuccessful). 3.0 Introduced text-on-a-path and graph creation tools. 1993 5.0 Major leap: added Layers and live editing in preview mode. 1996 6.0 Introduced the Eye Dropper, Paint Bucket, and Gradients. The Interface Revolution (1997–2002)

Transitioned from a box-purchase model to a cloud subscription model.

Text to Vector Graphic (powered by Adobe Firefly) and Retype tool.