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Allow native generation of barcodes

The new QR code capability in InDesign is very handy and speeds up workflow. Please include similar functionality for all barcode types, including those such as: EAN, PostNet, UPC-A, UPC-E, KIX, ISBN, ISSN and others. The user should simply select the barcode type, enter the relevant data, and then InDesign will create a barcode in the proper size according to the standards. Of course, if the user wants to change the size for some reason, the object could be scaled. Allow selection of foreground and background color for the barcode, including transparency as the default. This will greatly speed up workflow and eliminate additional linking to external files.

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Greg Lowitz shared this idea  ·   ·  Report…  ·  Admin →
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  • Daniel Koehler commented  ·   ·  Report

    Since 2017, this request has been on the table with no response from Adobe. It’s unbelievable. I just want to add that it’s sad InDesign still can’t handle this.

    We need:

    InDesign should natively support generation of standard barcodes, especially:
    EAN-13
    EAN-8
    UPC-A
    ITF-14
    Code 128
    ISBN / ISSN formats

    These are essential for packaging, publishing, product labeling, retail, logistics, and are still widely used alongside or even instead of QR codes.

    Currently, designers have to:
    Use online generators or plug-ins
    Export barcodes as EPS/SVG
    Manually manage scaling, quiet zones, and alignment
    This disrupts the layout process and introduces risk (low-res assets, wrong dimensions, missing quiet zone, accidental flattening).
    What’s needed:

    Barcode generation directly in Object > Generate Barcode
    Customization: height, bar width, quiet zone, font under barcode
    Export as vector (live or outlined)
    Automatic encoding validation (check digit, format rules)
    Option to link to data (e.g., from Excel/CSV for automation)
    Adding native barcode generation would streamline workflows in editorial, packaging, and commercial print environments.

  • Lynn commented  ·   ·  Report

    I would like this.

  • Axel Schellkopf commented  ·   ·  Report

    A barcode tool will also speed up changing to a new CC version, when you don´t have to wait for the update of the barcode plugin ...

  • Anonymous commented  ·   ·  Report

    how is this not already integrated!?!
    There is already a QR code... where is barcode?

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