Foundry has released Nuke 17.0, pitching it as a significant update for modern workflows with features such as native Gaussian Splat support, a new 3D system based on USD, expanded machine learning capabilities, and more.

After just coming off the bench with a significant acquisition announcement accelerating AI in its tools, particularly its Nuke compositor, Foundry is scoring more points in the AI arena with the just-released Nuke 17.0.

The new version features expanded machine learning capabilities as well as native Gaussian Splats support and a new 3D system based on USD. Foundry says these and other updates position Nuke to better meet the needs of modern and future VFX and animation workflows.

Artists can now import, view, manipulate, render, and export Gaussian Splats, a volume rendering technique for creating realistic visuals from point clouds. Integrating Gaussian Splats opens up a new sandbox for artists to play in, says Foundry’s Juan Salazar, creative director for VFX and animation, and opens new environmental workflows for set extensions and matte paintings, as well as adds more flexibility for element integration.

The new USD-based 3D system, released from beta, introduces a structured and non-destructive way to work with detailed projections, real-world lighting, and materials, giving artists more creative control with their rendering. It also broadens supported materials and shaders, which can be imported from other software, and streamlines mask and path management with precise selection and targeting. Because path-based masking keeps every upstream element accessible throughout the process, users are no longer locked out of individual objects once they’re merged.

Other highlights in Nuke 17.0 include:

• Enhanced annotationthrough an overhauled annotation system that has more responsive drawing tools, including redesigned brushes, dedicated comment panel, and strong visual indicators that support faster, more efficient review cycles. Feedback and collaboration in the annotation system are clearly documented and tracked, leaving no room for confusion. 
• Expanded customization capabilities with the Graph Scope Variable system, which improves pipeline connections with a production-ready framework, including support for Python Callbacks, API integration, and more.
• The addition of Field Nodes, a new system that provides the ability to non-destructively mask and manipulate 3D data, including Gaussian Splats, but are designed for other use in volumetric workflows.
• Building on the CopyCat machine learning toolset, BigCat is a new node optimized for large-scale dataset training. It can be used with tens or hundreds of shots to train and solve at the full scale of a project. 
• With faster upscaling and deep composite rendering, the updated core image processing system enables artists to work at scale with higher gamut, dynamic ranges, or higher resolutions. Supported formats include NotchLC and ACES 2.0, among others. 
• The release supports library updates, USD version 25.08, VFX Reference Platform 2025, and more.

_{LIKE WHAT YOU SAW HERE? SHARE THE EXPERIENCE, TELL YOUR FRIENDS.}