Hinted at for months, the Android version of the popular AutoCAD-based app will be available before the end of the month.

Autodesk has released an Android version of AutoCAD WS, the mobile app that views and edits DWG files. Like the original version for the Apple iOS environment, the free web and mobile application uses cloud computing technology. The product will be available for download starting April 20, 2011.

Autodesk first hinted at the availability of an Android version of AutoCAD WS during the introduction of the 2012 product line earlier this year. At recent press briefings for the manufacturing and construction divisions, the product was said to be “near release” but no specific date was given.

“The impressive and consistent growth of the Android ecosystem serves as an excellent platform for Autodesk to further expand its accessibility through AutoCAD WS,” said Tal Weiss, AutoCAD WS software development manager, Autodesk.

AutoCAD WS for Android features include a simplified set of viewing, editing, and markup tools so users can work on their designs while on the go. Users can open drawings from email attachments, sync files from the web, or upload drawings directly from AutoCAD software through the integrated online tab. Drawings can also be saved locally for use in the field when an Internet connection is unavailable.

One feature unique to Android version of AutoCAD WS is the text annotation tool supports integrated voice commands available on devices running Android 2.2 (Froyo) or above. Users can insert comments and notations on a drawing simply by speaking rather than typing them into the text edit box.

Additional feature enhancements that are available with this release include:

• Plot to PDF (web app only): Users can publish their DWG drawing to PDF using the free AutoCAD WS web application just as they would with AutoCAD software.
• Anywhere Storage (web and mobile apps): In addition to the AutoCAD WS cloud, customers can now connect directly to alternate storage folders from their Android, iPad and iPhone devices, as well as through the AutoCAD WS web application. This currently includes: the Autodesk Buzzsaw service, Dropbox (through DropDAV), Microsoft SharePoint, Windows Server 2008, Box.net, MobileMe, and Egnyte, and other cloud storage providers who support the WebDAV protocol.

Users interesed in more information can register to be notified of the exact time of download availability.