3ds Max 2024.2 released with significant improvements and a new Conform modifier

Autodesk has released the latest update of 3ds Max software, version 2024.2, introducing a host of new features and workflow enhancements as follows:

• Updated Assign Controller Rollout: This modernized feature offers animators more efficient ways to work, streamlining their animation processes.
• Boolean Modifier Enhancements`The update includes significant improvements in Boolean modifier, such as better sub-operand manipulation, enhanced performance, OpenVDB processing, and various bug fixes.
• Revamped Retopology: An updated version of Autodesk ReForm, boosting processing times by up to 30%, thereby accelerating modeling workflows.
• New Conform Modifier:  This feature allows projection of objects onto other surfaces using methods like Shrink Wrap and Volume, expanding creative possibilities.
• USD for 3ds Max 0.5 Plug-in: Enhanced Universal Scene Description (USD) support in 3ds Max facilitates seamless integration with existing workflows.
• Spline Shape Angle Constraint: A new option in the Snap Options to define custom angle constraints aids in more precise line and object creation.
• Advanced Color Management:  Moving out of the Technology Preview phase, OCIO-based color management now enables end-to-end color-managed workflows.
• Data Channel Modifier Updates:  Includes new presets, expression engines, and a Maxscript Process Operator, improving usability.
• Volume Select Modifier Improvements:  Significant performance improvement, with new capabilities to animate Material ID and Sm. Group values.
• Reduced Scene File Sizes:  Elimination of empty Animation Layers, Note Tracks, and Note keys, leading to smaller file sizes.
• List Controller UI Updates: New Append and Assign options in the Transform List, along with an updated context menu, improve animation workflow.
• Controller Context Menu Enhancements: New Controllers options, including Open Controller Properties, are now available.
• Expression Controller UI Update: The Assign to Controller button now works with Vector variables.
• Track View Script Controller: Playback speed improvements up to 2x with script controller updates.
• Scripting Editor Enhancements: Improved word highlighting features.
• Asset Tracker Network Path Verification: Ensures network path integrity.
• Motion Trails and Spline End Cap Material ID Improvements: Enhancements for working with splines and motion paths.
• Unwrap UVW Modifier Updates: Improved tools respecting current UV selections.
• New Camera Map Modifier Parameter: For better handling of animated cameras.
• ATF and Biped Enhancements: Improvements in importers and Biped experience.
• CAT Workflow Enhancements: Fixes and documentation for CAT Muscles mirroring issues.
• Modifier Performance Improvements: Speed enhancements in XForm, Relax, and Push modifiers.
• FBX and Arnold Updates:  Includes FBX 2020.3.4 plug-in and MAXtoA 5.6.5.1 for Arnold 7.2.4.1.
• Default Viewport Layout Change: Shift to a single Perspective view as default.
• OIIO and OSL Updates: OpenImageIO library updated to version 2.4.13.0 with enhanced OSL file capabilities.

 Find out more detailed technical information in the  3ds Max 2024.2 Update Release Notes.