Problem changing gradient colors in Illustrator 2024

[MattG80]

I've noticed on more than one of my files when working in Illustrator 2024 (28.1)  that when I attempt to change colors of an existing gradient in the gradient panel, nothing happens. With the gradient selected, I click on the individual sliders within the gradient panel and attempt to pick another color from my swatches and it does nothing. It does not matter which color I choose or whether I'm attempting to change a group or single compound path.

Anyone else having this issue with the latest version? Opening these same files in the previous 2023 version and the gradient panel works as it should when updating colors.

[Monika Gause]

Does this also happen in a new file?

[MattG80]

Thanks for the reply Monika.

To be certain I just opened  a new file. I created a shape,  added a default gradient, & then tried to change the colors. I'm getting the same result. Double clicking on the color sliders in the gradient panel and selecting a new color does not work.

[Anshul_Saini]

Hello @MattG80,

Thank you for providing additional information. To further investigate the issue you're experiencing with changing gradient colors in Illustrator 2024 (28.1), could you please share a sample file where this problem occurs? Additionally, a screen recording of the process would be helpful in understanding the issue more thoroughly.

With this information, we can try to identify any specific factors causing the problem and provide more accurate assistance.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Best,

Anshul Saini

[MattG80]

Thank you for the response Anshul.

So far it seems to happen in existing files and new files alike. When I go back to my Illustrator 2023 version, the gradients change color like they should.

I've attached a link to a screen recording showing the issue. In the recording I've created a new file, added a simple shape to my artboard, and then selected a default gradient. As you can see once I try to change the colors in the gradient panel, nothing happens. Thank you in advance for the asssistance.

https://shared-assets.adobe.com/link/86c39f48-2b1f-4211-464e-646726220681

[Anubhav M · Accepted solution]

Hello @MattG80,

Thanks for sharing the details. I was unable to replicate this behavior on my end. Would you mind trying to manually reset Illustrator's preferences and checking if it helps:

For macOS

• Close all Adobe applications.

• Go to the following locations

• ~/Library/Caches

• ~/Library/Application Support/Adobe

• ~/Library/Preferences

• Rename Adobe Illustrator, com.adobe.illustrator and Adobe Illustrator 28 Settings folders to Adobe Illustrator.old, com.adobe.illustrator.old and Adobe Illustrator 28 Settings.old

• Launch Illustrator from the Creative Cloud.

Note: Location starting with this "~" sign indicates the User Library, which is hidden. So, you need to copy & paste the exact path in spotlight search or from Finder Menu > Go > Go to Folder > Paste the location in the dialog box like this:

For Windows

- Close all Adobe applications.

- Go to Location C:\Users\%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Adobe

- Rename Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Illustrator 28 Settings folders to Adobe Illustrator.old and Adobe Illustrator - 28 Settings.old

- Relaunch Illustrator from Creative Cloud

Disclaimer: Please note that renaming preferences folders will remove all the custom settings, and Illustrator will launch with default settings. You can also save a backup of the folders in case you want to. The location is mentioned above.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,

Anubhav

[MattG80]

Thank you for the detailed solution Anubhav. I am working on a MAC so I followed the steps you provides for that OS and it appears to have resolved the issue. To test, I quickly opened a new document and created a basic shape. I then added a default gradient and attempted to change the colors in the gradient panel. Everything seems to be working like it should now. Thanks again Anubhav and everyone who offered assistance.  Happy holidays!