Blender, the popular open-source 3D creation software, has announced a significant update that brings a new app designed specifically for the iPad Pro, featuring full touch and Apple Pencil support. This development marks a pivotal step in Blender’s strategy to enhance usability on tablet devices, catering to the growing number of users who rely on tablets as primary computing devices.
In a detailed post on the Blender Developer Blog, Head of Product Dalai Felinto outlined the rationale behind this redesign. He noted that while tablets have been available for some time, advancements in processing power have only recently enabled them to function effectively as main computing devices. The initial rollout will focus on the iPad Pro, with plans for future support extending to Android and other graphic tablets.
Felinto highlighted several user experience challenges that the team is addressing, including the need for a single, full-screen window workflow, the limitations of smaller screen sizes, and the absence of a traditional keyboard and mouse setup. The new app will also incorporate a multi-input interface that utilizes both touch and pen capabilities, while considering constraints such as processing power and battery life.
To provide a clear vision of the app’s capabilities, Blender shared videos demonstrating object manipulation and sculpting functions. The iPad Pro version will initially concentrate on basic object manipulation, followed by advanced features like Grease Pencil and storyboarding, which will leverage the capabilities of the Apple Pencil.
Upcoming Demos and Community Engagement
Blender is actively engaging the developer community as it progresses with this project. Developers interested in contributing can connect through Blender’s DevTalk Forums or their Chat website. A significant demonstration of Blender running on the iPad Pro is scheduled for SIGGRAPH 2025, taking place in Vancouver from August 10 to 14, 2025. Following this event, a design workshop will be held at Blender HQ in Amsterdam, along with additional live demonstrations during the Blender Conference 2025, set for September 15 to 19, 2025.
As the 3D art community eagerly anticipates these developments, Blender’s commitment to enhancing the user experience on mobile devices reflects a broader trend in the software industry. The integration of touch and pen support could significantly influence how 3D artists create and manipulate digital content on the go.
