Universal Scene Description

Beta 3 out now: 3D compositing app gets new motion graphics tools and updates to deep compositing, USD and lens correction workflows.

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

Both individual artists and studios can now use Maxon's USD-based motion design and VFX software on commercial projects for free.

Thursday, May 7th, 2026

USD-based, responsive-design-friendly motion graphics and VFX tool is publicly available again - and is free to individual artists.

Wednesday, April 15th, 2026

Read our rundown of the changes to the 3D modeling and animation app, from new AI features to Skin Tools and surface tension in Bifrost.

Wednesday, March 25th, 2026

3DGS data can now be converted from PLY format, stored natively in USD files, and rendered using the new hdParticleField renderer.

Wednesday, March 25th, 2026

Read our pick of the latest features in the open-source 3D software, from the Raycast node to rendering and animation improvements.

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

Check out the new features in this major update to the compositing software, like support for Gaussian splats and an updated 3D system.

Friday, February 27th, 2026

Heavyweight lighting and look development tool gets a new 'UsdSuperLayer' and a preview of Hydra 2.0 rendering.

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026

Check out the new features in former Lucasfilm developer Darby Johnston's open-source image viewer for VFX and animation work.

Sunday, February 15th, 2026

Updated: new release candidate for the core glTF Gaussian Splatting Extension paves the way towards support for 3DGS data in glTF files.

Thursday, February 5th, 2026

First formal USD spec marks a step towards making USD an ISO-ratified cross-industry standard. See what it means for CG software developers.

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025

Check out the changes to the Maya edition of the renderer, including a new displacement material, and a viewport live link to Vantage.

Saturday, December 13th, 2025

Real-time ray tracing renderer is now available as a viewport renderer in Houdini, via a Hydra delegate. New smoke and fire simulator, too.

Thursday, December 11th, 2025