SpeedTree v7 released with Sub-Ds, growth animation, Alembic support

• Subdivision surfaces – create procedurally generated subdivision surface models suitable for hero shots
• Animated growth – animate simulated growth of trees and plants with a new artist-friendly tool (available in v7 Cinema only)
• Alembic export – easily export cached SpeedTree models into the open Alembic framework (.abc) for exchanging animated scene data with 3D applications
• GUI improvements – user interface and workflow enhancements, including a new “Focus” tool that presents only those portions of the tree being actively modeled and reduces certain processes from hours to minutes
• Season changes – transition models through a full range of seasonal colors and foliage changes by using a new slider control, including an unlimited number of structure-based variations—even mid-leaf transition states for more variance in the final render (available in v7 Cinema only)
• Tree Library enhancements – expanded library of high-detail models. Individual leaves and needles move realistically in new, fine-tuned wind settings.

Some restrictions apply to the distribution of assets created with SpeedTree. According to IDV, these assets can be shared with other users within the same organization, but they cannot be sold.

An evaluation version is available for download. Watch a new features video and find out more on SpeedTree’s website.