Maxon releases Cinema 4D 2026.1
Maxon has released Cinema 4D 2026.1, the latest version of its 3D software for motion graphics, VFX and visualization work.
The release adds a new set of Advanced Distribution types in the Cloner for motion graphics work, and updates liquid simulation, 3D modeling and animation workflow.
New Advanced Distribution type arranges objects in more complex, customizable patterns
For motion graphics artists, Cinema 4D’s Cloner object gets a new Advanced Distribution type.
Unlike the previous default – now renamed the Basic type – Advanced Distributions are node-based, making it possible to arrange objects in more complex, customizable, patterns.
Users can create their own Advanced Distributions using a new Nodes Distribution object, or use readymade distributions, available as add-on Capsules.
There are currently six readymade distributions available, including for stacking objects, arranging them in pyramids, stringing beads along a spline, and projecting them onto terrain.
New Liquid Flow emitter streamlines liquid sims
The liquid simulation system introduced in Cinema 4D 2025.3 also gets a few new features, including a Liquid Flow emitter.
It simplifies the process of simulating a continuous stream of liquid, previously done using the Basic emitter and a Liquify modifier.
There are also new options for filling a volume with liquid.
Updates to workflow, 3D modeling and animation
Other changes include Camera View Snapping, making it possible snap between orthographic views in the viewport.
A new Preserve UV option during 3D modeling makes it possible to make minor edits to a mesh without stretching the textures applied to it.
There are also workflow improvements when animating using the Take system, and to particle and Pyro simulation.
For pipeline integration, a new Substance Connector makes it possible to transfer materials between Cinema 4D and Substance 3D Sampler, Adobe’s material capture software.
Outside the core software, there are updates to the Redshift renderer, now included with all Cinema 4D subscriptions, and to the free Cineware for Unreal plugin.
Price and system requirements
Cinema 4D 2026.1 is compatible with Windows 10+ and macOS 14.0+. It is available rental-only, with Cinema 4D subscriptions costing $109/month or $839/year.
Read a list of new features in Cinema 4D 2026.1 in the online release notes
Read more about the new features in Cinema 4D in the online manual
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