CG software updates you might have missed: A closer look at Autograph 2026.1, Storm HydroFX 1.5, and V-Ray for Cinema 4D 7.4
In the world of computer graphics and visual effects, staying on top of the latest software updates can be a challenge. With so many new releases and updates, it's easy to miss out on valuable tools and features. This article takes a closer look at three such updates that might have slipped under the radar.
Autograph 2026.1
Maxon's free compositing, motion graphics, and VFX software, Autograph, has received a significant update. The new version, 2026.1, introduces several exciting features that will delight artists and designers.
One of the standout additions is support for vertical text layouts, which opens up new possibilities for creating dynamic and visually appealing text compositions. Additionally, Autograph now supports CJK characters, making it more inclusive and versatile for a global audience.
The Edge Smoother Modifier is a game-changer for smoothing edges on graphic elements, allowing for more natural and polished visuals. Furthermore, updates to procedural noise and vector blur enhance the software's ability to create realistic and visually stunning effects.
While the price and system requirements remain unchanged from the previous version, Autograph 2026.1 is a testament to Maxon's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the field of motion graphics software.
Storm HydroFX 1.5
Sebastian Schäfer's Storm HydroFX 1.5 is a standalone GPU-accelerated FLIP fluid solver, offering a significant speed boost of up to 2.5x compared to its predecessor. This update is a welcome addition for artists and designers working on VFX and motion graphics projects.
The increased speed allows for faster iteration and experimentation, enabling artists to bring their creative visions to life more efficiently. While the price and system requirements remain unchanged, Storm HydroFX 1.5 is a powerful tool for those seeking to elevate their fluid simulation work.
V-Ray for Cinema 4D 7.4
The latest update to V-Ray for Cinema 4D, version 7.4, introduces several new features that will delight Cinema 4D users. Despite the update being released last month, it has received limited promotion, which is why it's worth highlighting here.
One of the standout additions is the V-Ray Quick Sun caustics solver, which enables artists to create realistic and dynamic sunlight effects. The ability to relight Gaussian splats using scene lights adds another layer of versatility to the software.
Light Cache denoising and the new Histogram adjustment control in the VFB further enhance the rendering process, making it more efficient and visually appealing. Additionally, support for AMD graphics cards in V-Ray GPU and Chaos Vantage rendering inside the Cinema 4D viewport are significant improvements for users.
While the price of V-Ray for Cinema 4D remains unchanged, the update is a testament to Chaos' commitment to providing high-quality rendering solutions for Cinema 4D users.
In conclusion, these software updates offer a range of exciting features and improvements that are worth exploring. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a newcomer to the field, these tools can elevate your creative work and help you push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
