Welcome to the Future of Design with Autodesk AutoCAD 2026!
AutoCAD 2026 has arrived, introducing a suite of powerful features and enhancements that boost efficiency and simplify the design process. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, or designer, this latest release empowers you with advanced tools that make creating, editing, and collaborating more seamless than ever. In this article, we’ll explore the most exciting updates and how they can help you work smarter and faster.
From intricate architectural plans to detailed mechanical designs, AutoCAD 2026 equips you with everything you need to bring your boldest visions to life. Enjoy significant performance improvements, innovative AI-powered insights, and time-saving automations with every DWG file. Seamlessly integrate with Autodesk Docs to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and stay connected to your designs—anytime, anywhere.
Support files are now connected, which means that all drawings and collaborators in an Autodesk Docs project can share one set of support files.
During the set up of support files for an Autodesk Docs project, AutoCAD creates a folder named .autodesk.support. AutoCAD searches .autodesk.support (and its subfolders) as a starting point within the Autodesk Docs project to find required support files. This can be further extended by adding other support file locations across multiple projects. Personalized locations and settings can also be added as needed.
When opening a drawing stored in an Autodesk Docs project that has not been configured for project-aware support files, you have the option to set up the project.
To set up project-aware support files, display the Options dialog box and click Files Tab > Setup.
When creating a new drawing, AutoCAD uses the drawing template location specified in the project settings in which you last worked. AutoCAD uses the drawing template location from the user-profile if you last worked on a drawing that is not set up to use project-aware support files. There’s also enhanced support file searching across all specified support file search paths in a project.
Opening drawings from the same Autodesk Docs project locates and includes the support files without any additional setup.
The new What’s Changed insight provides an overview of edits made between Saved activities, allowing you to efficiently continue your work.
When you click a Saved activity tile in the Activity Insights palette, you’ll now see the What’s Changed insight in the Activity Properties panel.
This insight provides a high-level summary of changes made during each edit session. This can help you know what happened since you last worked in the drawing and continue where you left off.
The What’s Changed insight is tied to the drawing, not to individual users, so all AutoCAD collaborators working on the drawing can create and view the same insights.
Generally, each What’s Changed insight includes:
Each insight includes a thumbs up or down feedback option, allowing you to rate its helpfulness. Additionally, you can provide more specific feedback through the Help us improve link in the What’s Changed header.
We hope this new addition to Activity Insights enhances your collaboration and streamlines your workflow.
We’ve simplified our search and filter bars for ease of use. Now, you can filter activities by time, users, and specific activities with one button.
You can also access filters easily by right-clicking any activity. This action allows you to filter by the user who did the activity, or filter by the same type of activity.
In AutoCAD Architecture and MEP 2026 toolsets, the Activity Insights captures activities related to renovation mode and provides detailed information for selected activities.
The “Renovation plan created” event is logged in the Activity Insights palette under the following scenarios:
Note:
Improvements were made to Markup Import and Markup Assist, namely when importing markups from Autodesk Docs to AutoCAD, making it easier for drafters to incorporate revisions.
Markup Assist can now detect text, strikethroughs, and boundary markups (which can be inserted as revclouds) on PDFs that are imported and synced from Autodesk Docs.
To use Markup Assist with your published Autodesk Docs markups:
In the previous release, once a PDF was uploaded to Autodesk Docs, any existing markups on the PDF (for example, markups created in Adobe or with another markup software) could not be detected by Markup Assist, and instead were only visible as part of the background image that was overlaid in the Trace workspace. In this release, Markup Assist can now detect these types of markups.
Issues created and published on a PDF markup in Autodesk Docs can now be viewed in AutoCAD.
Other updates
In addition to identical blocks, this feature now finds text variations to further streamline repetitive tasks in AutoCAD.
BSEARCH, formerly known as BCONVERT, finds all instances of the same geometry in a drawing for efficient block conversion.
With this release, Search and Convert also finds text variations to convert into block attributes. This new capability is helpful for classifying repetitive but variable types of text, such as hotel room numbers or room names.
Once you decide to convert matching instances to a block, you’ll see the preview thumbnail. Now, you can easily see the selected object and text variation.
Along with converting matching instances to a block, you can then specify attribute tags for text variations by clicking Define attribute tags.
You can now start Search and Convert by easily accessing it from the ribbon.
Once you run BSEARCH, the new Search review mode highlights all matching instances.
From the Search review toolbar, you can:
BSEARCH – Replaces BCONVERT. Displays the Convert dialog box, which provides options to convert selected entities and identical instances into blocks.
-BSEARCH – Replaces -BCONVERT. At the Command prompt, converts the selected entities and identical instances into blocks.
TEXTTOATTRIBUTE – In the BSEARCH command, if text objects are selected, controls whether text variations will be searched for conversion into block attributes.
BSEARCHINCLUDEEXISTINGBLOCKS – Replaces BCONVERTINCLUDEEXISTINGBLOCKS. Controls whether existing block instances are selected by BSEARCH command by default. Users can still make adjustments to the selection during the review process.
BCONVERT – No longer needed. This functionality is included in the BSEARCH command.
-BCONVERT – No longer needed. This functionality is included in the -BSEARCH command.
BCONVERTINCLUDEEXISTINGBLOCKS – No longer needed. This functionality is included in the BSEARCHINCLUDEEXISTINGBLOCKS system variable.
In this release, Detect has improved detection capability, as well as the option to change and edit the primary instance.
BDETECT, previously known as DETECT, uses machine learning to identify and group similar objects in a drawing for easy block conversion.
Detect and Convert is a Tech Preview, which means that the detection capability and functionality have improved since last release and will continue to improve.
Detect and Convert is best at recognizing architectural objects, such as:
Currently, Detect and Convert supports these units:
You can now easily start Detect and Convert from the ribbon.
Once you run BDETECT, the Detect palette will show all detected sets in a new thumbnail view.
Once you click on a set, the new Detect review mode highlights all found instances.
From the review toolbar, you can:
With this release, Detect and Convert now allows you to edit or change the primary instance. Now, you can choose a different primary instance by selecting Change primary from the review toolbar.
Or, you can add or remove objects from the selected primary instance to edit it and refine your search. The Edit primary functionality is available from both the review toolbar and the palette.
While in review mode, the following commands are temporarily blocked:
BDETECT – Replaces DETECT. Displays the Detect palette where you can start object detection and manage the objects that are eligible for conversion.
DETECT – No longer needed. This functionality is included in the BDETECT command.
In this release, we integrated the CENTERLAYER system variable into the workflows of creating new centerlines and center marks.
The value of the CENTERLAYER system variable can be changed:
GDI Plot Enhancement: We improved compatibility with Windows system printers, handling custom configuration settings more effectively. This enhancement is enabled by default. Plot using your preferred Windows system printer as usual. The printer’s custom settings will be used during printing and saved to a .PC3 file.
GPU Text: The selection effect of GPU text has been enhanced to improve display quality. A new option in the Graphics Performance dialog box provides better control over the display of TrueType fonts while using GPU acceleration. GPU text processing has been optimized for Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and right-to-left languages like Arabic and Hebrew.
Changes to the FASTSHADEDMODE System Variable: We added two new visual styles with FASTSHADEDMODE support, Hidden and Conceptual. FASTSHADEDMODE improves navigation performance in large 3D models when using a visual style with (Fast) in the name.
Performance Improvements: Raster images now load asynchronously in the background during the opening of a drawing file.
Customer Satisfaction Survey: When you close AutoCAD, a customer satisfaction survey displays. The feedback collected from the survey is used to improve AutoCAD products.
In the evolving world of architectural and urban design, contextual data has emerged as a vital component in creating more informed, efficient, and sustainable projects. Forma, from Autodesk, leverages this data to provide architects and planners with conceptual design tools and predictive analytics, which allow relevant parties to make more informed decisions.
This article explores the pivotal role of contextual data in design and how Forma is transforming traditional design practices.
Contextual data encompasses the environmental, social, and economic factors that influence a design project. This includes elements such as climate conditions, topography, surrounding infrastructure, and demographic trends.
The importance of contextual data lies in its ability to provide a comprehensive understanding of a project’s surroundings. It enables designers to anticipate challenges, optimize resource usage, and enhance user experiences. Additionally, contextual data supports sustainable design practices by promoting solutions that align with environmental and community needs.
In the next section, we’ll cover specific advantages to integrating contextual data into your designs.
Incorporating contextual data into the design process offers a multitude of advantages that enhance project outcomes. Some of the benefits of contextual data integration include:
Contextual data enhances design accuracy by providing precise information about the project’s environment. This includes site-specific details such as sunlight exposure, wind patterns, and noise levels. By integrating this data, designers can create solutions that are better suited to their surroundings, reducing the need for costly adjustments during construction.
Incorporating contextual data allows architects and planners to create designs that are more responsive to environmental conditions. By analyzing climate patterns, topography, and ecosystem dynamics, designers can develop sustainable solutions that minimize environmental impact. This approach supports passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation.
Through the utilization of real-time information and predictive analytics, architects can evaluate multiple design scenarios and optimize outcomes. This reduces uncertainties associated with traditional design methods. Data-driven decision-making also enhances collaboration among stakeholders by providing transparent and evidence-based insights, leading to more effective communication within the project team.
Common sources for contextual data include Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite imagery, and open data platforms provided by governmental agencies. Specific software packages such as Autodesk’s Forma also contain some contextual data sets. Additionally, tools like climate data repositories and urban analytics platforms offer valuable insights into weather patterns, traffic flows, and land usage. The strategic use of contextual data not only improves design accuracy but also enables solutions that respond to the ever-changing environmental and social dynamics of our world.
In the previous section, we discussed some resources for finding contextual data. GIS and Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools support contextual data integration, allowing designers to incorporate environmental aspects into their designs.
Some strategies for implementation that don’t require software include collaborating with other multidisciplinary teams. Engaging urban planners, environmental scientists, and data analysts ensures a holistic understanding of contextual factors. For example, environmental specialists can provide insights into ecological impacts, while urban planners contribute knowledge of zoning regulations and community needs.
Forma offers a suite of advanced tools designed to enhance contextual insights throughout the design process. Below, you can find more info on how Forma analyzes contextual data.
Forma ensures accurate contextual insights through data normalization and validation. Standardizing diverse datasets, such as climate and demographic data, into a consistent format eliminates discrepancies and enhances reliability. Additionally, validation tools cross-check sources for accuracy, ensuring that integrated data is both relevant and consistent.
Cross-referencing external datasets from previously mentioned sources like GIS databases and environmental systems through Forma allows for enhanced contextual data analysis. This approach provides a comprehensive view of site conditions and community dynamics. Cross-referencing data can then combine traffic and demographic data to help optimize site access and transportation planning, ensuring designs are functional and contextually relevant.
Forma utilizes machine learning to analyze complex patterns in historical and real-time data, offering predictive insights on environmental changes and urban growth. This enables proactive design decisions for resilience and adaptability. Machine learning also enhances scenario modeling, helping architects optimize layouts and sustainability strategies.
Contextual data is transforming industries by enabling more informed and adaptive decision-making. In urban planning, it helps architects design smarter cities by analyzing population density, traffic flow, and environmental conditions.
In healthcare, contextual data is used to optimize patient care by integrating data from wearable devices, environmental sensors, and electronic health records. Additionally, in retail, contextual data informs dynamic pricing strategies and targeted marketing campaigns by analyzing consumer behavior and purchasing patterns. These real-world applications demonstrate the versatility and impact of contextual data across diverse sectors.
Forma utilizes contextual data to enhance generative AI applications, allowing designers to create innovative solutions tailored to specific environments. In architecture, for example, Forma uses contextual data to generate building designs that optimize natural light and ventilation based on site-specific conditions. In manufacturing, AI systems utilize contextual data to detect anomalies in real time, alerting operators to potential issues before they escalate.
Let’s now look at how Autodesk Forma has been instrumental in advancing design projects through the integration of generative AI and contextual data. A notable example is its collaboration with Factory OS, a company specializing in modular construction. Together, they developed new design methods that connect Factory OS’s building unit catalog with AI-powered generative design.
This partnership enabled the rapid creation of customizable building designs, balancing factors such as cost, carbon footprint, and habitability. The outcome was a reusable Forma extension that streamlines the design-to-construction process, particularly for affordable and sustainable housing projects.
Integrating contextual data in design processes, particularly through platforms like Forma, is revolutionizing various industries. By grounding AI models in real-world information, designers and engineers can develop solutions that are accurate, responsive, and tailored to specific environmental and societal needs. As technology continues to evolve, the fusion of contextual data with generative AI promises to unlock new possibilities across a variety of disciplines. The future of design will increasingly rely on contextual insights to create adaptive, sustainable, and user-centric solutions.
Microsol Resources. (n.d.). What is Autodesk Forma? Why is it important to the AEC workflow? Retrieved February 6, 2025, from https://microsolresources.com/tech-resources/article/what-is-autodesk-forma-why-is-it-important-to-the-aec-workflow/
National Geographic. (n.d.). Geographic information system (GIS). Retrieved February 6, 2025, from https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/geographic-information-system-gis/
Microsol Resources. (n.d.). BIM software solutions. Retrieved February 6, 2025, from https://microsolresources.com/software-category/bim/
Autodesk. (2024). From concept to carbon: Early design insights with AI and Autodesk Forma. Retrieved February 6, 2025, from https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/From-Concept-to-Carbon-Early-Design-Insights-with-AI-and-Autodesk-Forma-2024
AEC Trailblazers, This One’s for You!
Join Microsol Resources and Bluebeam in the heart of Washington, D.C., from September 30 – October 2 for a premier global event redefining the future of architecture, engineering, and construction.
Immerse yourself in the latest ConTech innovations, elevate your expertise with hands-on Bluebeam training, and gain game-changing insights from top industry leaders. Plus, connect with a dynamic community of professionals who share your passion for pushing the boundaries of AEC.
🔹 Early bird pricing ends April 30 – don’t miss out!
🔹 Save an extra 20% with code: UNBOUNDMICROSOL
Features the latest informative and technical content provided by our industry experts for designers, engineers, and construction firms and facility owners.
LEARN MORESTAY IN TOUCH
