Blender 3.0 Release: Anticipated Delay and Potential Cycles X Integration
The much-lauded Blender 3D open-source modeling software is nearing its major Blender 3.0 release. However, to give developers more time to unwind as COVID-19 lockdowns and constraints ease, accommodate possible developer meetups, and integrate further features, the release is likely to be postponed.
Tom Roosendaal, chairman of the Blender Foundation and CEO of the Blender Institute, has indicated that the Blender 3.0 release will probably be postponed by two months. Instead of aiming for a late summer release, the target is now set for late October.
With the easing of COVID-19-related restrictions and an increase in developers keen on in-person meetups while Blender 3.0 is being finalized, the core developers have agreed to delay the launch for a couple of months. This extension offers developers more time to relax and perhaps enjoy holidays as the pandemic subsides.
The promising aspect of this delay is that the ongoing “Cycles X” project is expected to be ready for the Blender 3.0 launch in October. The extra time may also allow additional features to be included in the 3.0 release.
Blender’s recent release, Blender 2.93 LTS, features a new Spreadsheet Editor designed to facilitate mesh, instance, and point cloud inspection. It also introduces a new Fill tool, Depth of Field enhancements, Eevee with improved volumetrics, and support for area lights and soft shadows.
About Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite. It supports the complete 3D pipeline, including modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, and motion tracking, even video editing and game creation. Advanced users can utilize Blender’s API for Python scripting to customize the application and create specialized tools, which are often included in Blender’s future releases. Blender is well-suited for individuals and small studios that benefit from its unified pipeline and responsive development process. Examples from many Blender-based projects are available in the showcase.
See Also:
- Blender 2.93 LTS Released
- V-Ray 5, Update 1 Now Available For Maya And Houdini
- Autodesk Releases USD Plugin For 3ds Max 2022