Unlock all objects unlocks layers too

[ingmarv78051495]

Hi, recently I've been observing a strange behaviour in Illustrator.

When I "Unlock all objects" (CMD+alt+2) some (though not all) layers are unlocked.

Expected behaviour: Only objects that I have previously locked (CMD+2) will be unlocked, layers that I have locked in the layers panel should remain so.

Is this intended behaviour or is it a bug? It did not use to be this way (and should not imo). Am I missing something? Is anyone experiencing the same? 

Illustrator 29.1 on a MacBook

[Anubhav M]

Hello @ingmarv78051495,

I'm sorry about your experience. I tried replicating this behavior on my end but could not. Would you mind confirming if Illustrator behaves this way with all files? Also, kindly confirm the OS version and share a screen recording of your exact workflow and the problem so I can better assist you.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Anubhav

[ingmarv78051495]

Hi, I realized now that this is only affecting sub-layers (which I still don't think  is useful or should be intended). To replicate : Create a new document. Create a sub layer. Draw a rectangle on the main layer. Lock it (CMD + 2). Draw a circle on the sub layer. Lock the sub layer in the layers Panel. Unlock all objects (CMD+alt+2). The sub layer is now unlocked as well and the circle can be edited. 

Expected behaviour: only the locked Rectangle should unlock. But not the sublayer and the circle in it. 

Mac OS Version: 13.6.1 (22G313)

[Anshul_Saini]

Hello @ingmarv78051495,

Thank you for the detailed explanation and for taking the time to troubleshoot this issue. I understand how this unexpected behavior can be frustrating, especially when it’s not what you expect.

I checked on my end using Illustrator 2020 (v24.0), and I noticed the same behavior. When you “Unlock All Objects” (CMD+Alt+2), it does unlock sub-layers as well, which seems to be the intended behavior. This isn’t something new introduced in version 29.1.

I understand that you feel this may not be useful, and I can see how it might disrupt your workflow. I’ll make sure to pass on your feedback to the product team, as your perspective on keeping sub-layers locked is valuable.

Let me know if you need further clarification or if there’s anything else I can help with!

Best,

Anshul Saini