The worst-kept secret in software is out; Autodesk returns to the Macintosh platform with a new version of AutoCAD, and extends its expertise in 2D even further with a new app for Apple’s iPod/iPhone environment.
Autodesk today confirms it is nearly ready to ship AutoCAD for Mac software. The new version of AutoCAD will run native on Mac OS X. Autodesk also announces a mobile version of AutoCAD, called AutoCAD WS, a new app for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch that will allow users to edit and share AutoCAD designs in the field.
AutoCAD for Mac and the AutoCAD WS mobile application will be available in North America and Europe beginning this fall. For details and purchase options, visit http://www.autodesk.com/autocadformac
“The release of AutoCAD for Mac marks the return of professional design and engineering software to the Mac platform and an important convergence of power and design. Over 5000 customers have helped develop this product through our beta program and they are delighted to have the choice of a native Mac version of AutoCAD,” said Amar Hanspal, senior vice president, Autodesk Platform Solutions and Emerging Business. “The combination of this new version of AutoCAD and the extension of AutoCAD to iPad, iPhone and iPod touch is a big step in Autodesk’s efforts to accelerate design and make design more accessible for an ever-greater number of people so they can shape the world around them.”
“Apple is thrilled that Autodesk is bringing AutoCAD back to the Mac and we think it’s the perfect combination for millions of design and engineering professionals,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “The AutoCAD WS app is a bold new idea, a mobile version of industry-leading design software for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, the world’s most innovative mobile devices.”
Autodesk says AutoCAD for Mac has an intuitive interface that will be familiar to Mac users and makes available many of the powerful AutoCAD features and functionality to customers who choose to work natively on the Mac. AutoCAD for Mac takes full advantage of Mac OS X, including graphical browsing of design files with Cover Flow and use of Multi-Touch gestures on Mac notebooks, Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad for intuitive pan and zoom features. User experience design patterns, such as the visual approach to drawing and layout management, have also been incorporated into AutoCAD for Mac.
AutoCAD Extended to iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch
Autodesk also announces the AutoCAD WS mobile application, a new free app soon to be available through Apple’s App Store. The AutoCAD WS mobile application will enable editing AutoCAD files on iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch.
AutoCAD for Mac will also be offered free to students and educators through the Autodesk Education Community.
