Autodesk releases 3ds Max 2025.2
Autodesk has released 3ds Max 2025.2, the latest version of its 3D software for design, architectural visualization and visual effects work.
The update introduces Flow Retopology for 3ds Max, a new plugin that enables 3ds Max subscribers to process complex retopology jobs in the cloud.
Other changes include support for vector data in SVG format, new presets for the Data Channel Modifier, and updates to the USD for 3ds Max and Arnold for 3ds Max plugins.
At the time of writing, Autodesk hasn’t announced the release on its product timeline, but according to the online documentation, it is now available to subscribers.
3ds Max’s Data Channel Modifer gets new presets to control geometry selection.
3D modeling: support for SVG files and updates to the Data Channel Modifier
For 3D modeling and design work, 3ds Max 2025.2 adds the option to import and export vector data in SVG format.
Vector designs imported in SVG format are converted to splines inside 3ds Max, preserving colors and strokes, and with the option to apply an Extrude modifier.
The Data Channel Modifier, for automating complex modeling operations, gets a range of new presets to control which parts of the mesh are selected.
They include options to select UV seams or open edges.
Retopology: new Flow Retopology plugin for cloud-based workflows
3ds Max 2025.2 users also get access to Flow Retopology for 3ds Max 1.0, a new plugin available separately from the core application.
It has similar functionality to the existing Retopology Tools, but makes it possible to submit retopology jobs to run in the cloud, rather than on the user’s machine.
As well as preventing 3ds Max’s interface from freezing while processing complex geometry, like CAD models or raw scan data, the plugin makes it possible to process multiple retopology jobs in parallel.
3ds Max subscribers can process up to 30 jobs per month in the cloud, providing that they don’t take longer than six hours to complete.
The Maya version of the plugin was released with Maya 2025.1 in May.
Updates to USD for 3ds Max and Arnold for 3ds Max
3ds Max’s USD workflow plugin has also been updated, with USD for 3ds Max 0.8, adding the option to use the cameras in a USD stage inside 3ds Max’s viewport.
For facial animation, it is now possible to export progressive morphing generated by the Morpher Modifier as in-between USD blendshapes.
The update also adds new USD controllers and the option to bulk-select USD prims in the USD Explorer.
The integration for the Arnold renderer has also been updated, with Arnold for 3ds Max 5.7.2.1 supporting the new features from Arnold 7.3.2, including toon tone-mapping.
Price and system requirements
3ds Max 2025.2 is compatible with Windows 10+. It is rental-only. Subscriptions cost $235/month or $1,875/year.
In many countries, artists earning under $100,000/year and working on projects valued at under $100,000/year qualify for Indie subscriptions, which cost $305/year.
Read a full list of new features in 3ds Max 2025.2 in the online documentation
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