Blender, the popular open-source 3D design software, is undergoing a redesign tailored for tablet use, beginning with comprehensive support for the iPad Pro. Here’s what to anticipate.
In a comprehensive article on the Blender Developer Blog, Head of Product Dalai Felinto mentions that while tablets have existed for some time, “it is only recently, due to enhanced processing capabilities, that they have started to be utilized as primary computing devices.”
He notes that Blender’s initiative for tablets will eventually encompass “Android and other graphic tablets in the future,” but the initial rollout will kick off with the iPad Pro as they address UX hurdles, which include:
– Single, full-screen window workflow.
– Relatively limited screen space.
– No keyboard/mouse (initially, use should be alternative).
– Multi-input interface (touch + pen).
– Restricted processing power and battery life.
– Isolated file system.
Felinto further states that the company aims to deliver a consistent experience across both desktop and tablets in the long run, but for the time being, the iPad Pro version will concentrate on fundamental object manipulation and sculpting, “followed by Grease Pencil and storyboarding,” taking advantage of the Apple Pencil functionalities.
### Mockups and Demos
To show the progress of Blender’s adaptation for the iPad Pro, Felinto released a pair of videos demonstrating object manipulation and sculpting.
He also mentioned that developers keen on participating in the project can reach out via Blender’s DevTalk Forums or through their Chat website.
Lastly, a tech demonstration of Blender operating on the iPad Pro will be presented at SIGGRAPH 2025 in Vancouver, happening August 10–14. This will be succeeded by a design workshop at Blender HQ in Amsterdam, along with more live demonstrations during Blender Conference 2025, set for September 15–19.
Are you a 3D artist? What are your expectations for Blender on the iPad? Share your thoughts in the comments.
