VUE, PlantFactory, and PlantCatalog Are Now Free to Download!

In a significant shift for digital environment creation, Bentley Systems has just announced that the 2023 and 2024 versions of VUE, PlantFactory, and PlantCatalog are now available for free. 

For over two and a half decades, e-on software's products have been cornerstones for artists and designers in the media and entertainment industry, enhancing their ability to craft stunning digital landscapes and intricate eco-systems.
Since Bentley Systems' acquisition of e-on software in 2015, these powerful tools have been integral to Bentley's broader suite of solutions, extending their reach across global markets. Bentley Systems has long been at the forefront of providing software solutions for professionals in infrastructure design and operations. The company's dedication to engineering and infrastructure professionals is evident in their mission to improve the quality of life by creating sustainable infrastructure. It is within this context that Bentley Systems has re-evaluated its product suite and made the strategic decision to discontinue the sale and further development of VUE, PlantFactory, and PlantCatalog. While the cessation of sales and active development might come as a surprise, Bentley Systems is committed to ensuring that users can continue to utilize the e-on software products that have become integral to their workflows. The provision of these tools for free reflects a thoughtful consideration for the creative community that has built around these applications.

The free versions of VUE, PlantFactory, and PlantCatalog come as perpetual builds, which means that once downloaded, they can be used indefinitely.

Users are required to acknowledge and agree to a new end-user license agreement (EULA) that stipulates the software is to be used without further support, except for critical security patches. For those unfamiliar with these tools, they offer a comprehensive suite for creating, animating, and rendering realistic natural environments. VUE is a powerful tool for creating rich and detailed 3D environments. PlantFactory is a versatile application for modeling and animating 3D plants and vegetation. PlantCatalog offers an extensive collection of plant species ready to be integrated into digital scenes. Together, they provide a cohesive and robust set of tools for artists and designers working in fields ranging from architecture to visual effects. The decision by Bentley Systems also highlights the ever-changing landscape of design software and tools.

Design professionals need to stay informed about the latest technological advancements and transitions within the industry. It's part of the reason why NOVEDGE remains committed to providing the newest and most advanced design software technology. On the NOVEDGE platform, users can find a variety of tools to suit their specific design needs. For instance, those looking for alternatives or additional software to complement their design process might consider tools such as V-Ray for high-end rendering capabilities, or Autodesk products like Maya or 3ds Max for comprehensive modeling and animation. For those working in architecture and engineering disciplines, Revit and Civil 3D offer industry-standard solutions for building information modeling and civil infrastructure design respectively. Furthermore, design software such as Rhino 3D, complemented by plugins like xNURBS, VisualARQ, and Lands Design, can provide designers with the flexibility and power to model complex forms and landscapes.

In conclusion, while Bentley Systems' announcement regarding VUE, PlantFactory, and PlantCatalog marks the end of one chapter, it opens opportunities for the creative community to continue their work with these now freely available tools. As the design industry evolves, professionals need to adapt by exploring new software and technology that can enhance their capabilities. For those seeking the latest and most sophisticated design software technology, we invite you to contact our sales team at NOVEDGE. Our extensive collection of products offers a range of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of designers and engineers, ensuring that your creative and technical endeavors are always supported with cutting-edge tools.

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