why is Illustrator flattening my export to photoshop?

[paper1246]

I have an index page, which I created in Illustrator that I am attempting to export to photoshop.  The problem is that when I open the Photoshop file, it has all been flattened into a single layer.  I made sure "flat image" is not selected in the export options.  Furthermore, I always get a pop up message that says "Some containers in the AI document have been flattened," every time I export.  The document is a single artboard with 9 layers (each layer representing a different element on the index page).

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Paul

[Monika Gause]

If you cannot export a file with layers then you are doing something differently in the file than you did before. Illustrator will totally export a PSD with layers.

In the Creative Cloud app, turn off Auto-Update. Do only manual updates and then when updating it will ask you if you want to delete the old version. 

[Anshul_Saini]

Hi @sbn85,

I’m really sorry to hear about your frustrating experience, and I completely understand how disappointing it can be when familiar workflows suddenly feel more challenging. I appreciate your patience in bringing this to our attention.

Monika has shared some helpful insights, and I agree that turning off Auto-Update in the Creative Cloud app can help prevent the automatic removal of previous versions in the future. If you need guidance on locating this setting, I’m happy to help.

Regarding the PSD export issue, it shouldn’t be happening this way. Could you please share a sample .ai file where you’re facing this issue and, if possible, a short recording of your workflow? This would allow the team to understand better what’s happening on your end and investigate further.

Your feedback is valuable, and I assure you that we want to help you get back to a smoother workflow. Looking forward to your response.

Thanks,

Anshul