Tag: FreeCAD

  • AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative

    AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative

    Key Takeaways

    1. AstoCAD is a new soft fork of FreeCAD focused on improving user interface design to make it more user-friendly and appealing.
    2. The development of AstoCAD aims to support ongoing enhancements in FreeCAD while ensuring users access the latest features.
    3. AstoCAD’s UI changes are inspired by the popular CAD software Autodesk Fusion360, making it more relatable for users.
    4. AstoCAD operates on a paid membership model, offering Standard and Premium options, with different pricing and benefits for each.
    5. New UI features developed in AstoCAD will eventually be integrated into FreeCAD, providing long-term improvements for all users.

    It’s known that a lot of open-source applications and software struggle with their user interface design. FreeCAD, which has recently made significant progress in its features and capabilities, has long been part of this narrative. However, a new fork of FreeCAD aims to offer a refreshed, user-friendly UI redesign.

    The Future of FreeCAD

    Our goal is to enhance FreeCAD to transform it into the ultimate CAD software. To achieve this, we need a sustainable income. That’s where AstoCAD comes into the picture.

    In the introductory video, Pierre-Louis Boyer, the main developer of AstoCAD and also responsible for many recent UI updates in FreeCAD, presents the new program as a means to support the ongoing development and UI enhancements in FreeCAD. AstoCAD is a soft fork, meaning it will always utilize the most recent FreeCAD build, ensuring that users get the latest technical features alongside the improved UI.

    User Interface Enhancements

    The new UI modifications being introduced in AstoCAD make the 3D design software resemble Autodesk Fusion360, which is a well-known CAD suite favored by makers and hobbyists alike.

    AstoCAD operates on a paid membership basis, offering both premium and standard membership options, yet the source code for AstoCAD remains open-source. The UI advancements and features introduced in AstoCAD won’t be exclusive to it forever. As stated on the FAQ page, the AstoCAD team plans to integrate new UI features into FreeCAD “after some time,” with Boyer indicating this could be a few months post-release in AstoCAD.

    Membership Pricing

    As previously mentioned, AstoCAD offers both premium and standard membership choices. The Standard membership is priced at €48 or $48 annually, providing members with access to AstoCAD builds. Conversely, the Premium membership costs €144 or $144 per month, offering prioritization for issue reporting. This means that users with Premium memberships will have their issues addressed more quickly than those reported by Standard members.

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    AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative
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  • FreeCAD 1.0 Release: Major Usability Improvements in Free 3D Software

    FreeCAD 1.0 Release: Major Usability Improvements in Free 3D Software

    FreeCAD Release Notes

    FreeCAD has launched its latest version, bringing numerous improvements and features. This update is designed to enhance user experience and functionality, making it easier for both new and seasoned users to work on their projects.

    New Features and Enhancements

    Among the most notable changes is the improved user interface. The updated layout is more intuitive, allowing for a smoother workflow. Additionally, the new tools added to the software provide users with more options for creating and editing their designs. This version also features better compatibility with various file formats, ensuring that users can easily share their work.

    Performance Improvements

    Another significant aspect of this release is the performance optimizations. The software runs faster, which is especially beneficial for large projects. Users will notice a decrease in lag time when navigating through complex models, making the overall experience more enjoyable. The developers have focused on reducing memory usage, which helps in preventing crashes and keeping the application stable.

    Pricing and Availability

    FreeCAD remains a free and open-source software, allowing users to download and use it without any cost. This accessibility continues to be a key advantage of the platform, ensuring that everyone, regardless of budget, can utilize powerful design tools. The latest version is available for various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it widely accessible for all users.

    In conclusion, the latest release of FreeCAD is packed with features and improvements that cater to a wide range of users. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, this update offers valuable tools to enhance your design process. Be sure to download the new version and experience the upgrades for yourself!

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