Autodesk Launches Maya 2025.3 with Bold new tools

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Synopsis

A significant update in Autodesk Maya 2025.3 introduces powerful tools for 3D modeling, animation enhancements, and the new OpenPBR material standard, redefining the 3D experience.

At a glance

• Autodesk Maya 2025.3’s updated Boolean algorithm enhances reliability on complex geometries.
• OpenPBR support in LookdevX and Arnold simplifies cross-software workflows.
• Bifrost’s cloud “wedging” feature enables multiphysics simulation variants.
• USD updates streamline camera control and reference management.

3D modeling upgrade

The Autodesk Maya 2025.3 showcases a significant upgrade to the Boolean modeling algorithm, designed to tackle problematic geometry with precision. 

Autodesk reports the enhanced algorithm reduces failure rates to nearly zero, including those with overlapping vertices or coplanar faces. 

This update aligns Maya’s Boolean operations with 3ds Max, creating a consistent experience across Autodesk’s 3D modeling software.

OpenPBR support for VFX

A significant highlight of Autodesk Maya 2025.3 is the introduction of OpenPBR, an open material standard co-developed with Adobe. 

Integrated into the LookdevX toolset and the Arnold renderer, OpenPBR allows for seamless material transfers between CG applications. 

Users can easily convert existing AI standard surface shaders to OpenPBR, paving the way for a more cohesive look development workflow.

LookdevX also adds new features like reusable shading compounds and additional gradient types.

Related News: NVIDIA Blackwell Design Contribution: Is it a win for AI?

Bifrost updates for animation

Bifrost for Maya 2.11 expands its multiphysics capabilities with a cloud-based simulation wedging feature. 

Artists can now run simulation variations in the cloud by adjusting parameter values, enabling more efficient exploration of multiphysics scenarios without overwhelming local resources. 

USD enhancements

With USD for Maya 0.30, the latest updates enhance workflow efficiency, particularly for users working with complex scenes. 

USD cameras can now be controlled using Maya’s native camera tools, while the Outliner offers new capabilities, including reloading and color-coding for references, payloads, and nested assets. 

These improvements give artists greater flexibility and precision in managing USD scenes within Autodesk Maya.

Additional notes

At the time of this release, Autodesk has not updated Maya Creative to version 2025.3; the current release is still at Maya Creative 2025.2. 

Autodesk Maya 2025.3 remains subscription-based, with plans starting at $235/month or $1,875/year. Maya Indie is available to qualifying users for $305/year, offering an affordable option for individual artists and small studios.

With Autodesk Maya 2025.3’s OpenPBR support, Boolean modeling capabilities, and cloud-enabled Bifrost, Autodesk pushes the boundaries of 3D animation and VFX, cementing its status as an industry leader in digital content creation.

Source: CG Channel