The Icosa Foundation has unveiled Open Brush 2.10, a significant update to its open-source 3D painting software. This version introduces a much-anticipated Multiplayer mode, allowing artists to co-create in shared virtual spaces. Users can establish private ‘rooms’ and invite collaborators by sharing room names. Features include muting participants, assigning view-only roles, and the ability to remove users from sessions. While the current implementation supports core painting tools, additional functionalities are slated for future updates. (Read the release notes here)
Enhanced Tool Support and Flexibility
Open Brush 2.10 extends its compatibility by supporting Logitech’s MX Ink stylus, tailored for Meta Quest hardware. This integration offers artists a more tactile and precise drawing experience in VR. Additionally, the update allows for the erasure of ‘widgets’—imported images and 3D models—streamlining the editing process. Users can now also toggle experimental brushes on or off without the need to restart the application, enhancing workflow efficiency.
Availability and Licensing
Open Brush 2.10 is available for free on Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms. It supports a range of VR headsets, including HTC, Meta, Pico, and Windows Mixed Reality devices. The software is released under the Apache 2.0 license, ensuring it remains open-source and accessible to the creative community.
Considerations for Production Use
While Open Brush 2.10 introduces promising features for collaborative VR artistry, it’s advisable for professionals to thoroughly test the new functionalities within their specific workflows before integrating them into active projects. As with any software update, ensuring compatibility and stability in your production environment is crucial. For more information and to download Open Brush 2.10, visit the official website.
