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ARES Commander 2026 - Release Notes

ARES, Commander, 2026, Release Notes

Christian Kramer avatar
Written by Christian Kramer
Updated this week

LAST UPDATE: 2026 SP2 (26.2.1.3150) - Released 01/10/2025

You can download the last update here.

+ New ARES Commander Update +

ARES Commander 2026 SP2 (build no. 26.2.1.3150)

Click here to access the download page

Update instructions: After downloading, close ARES and start the installation. The service pack can be installed without previous uninstallation.

Below you can find the main fixes and new improvements on ARES Commander 2026 SP2:

  • Print, export and sheets:

    • Page numbers in Sheet Set Manager display correctly. [DESKTOP-385769]

    • Resolved an issue where importing certain SVG files caused crash. [DESKTOP-390778]

    • Preview images in the IMPORTSVG dialog are now displayed correctly, ensuring users can easily view SVG content before importing. [DESKTOP-394741]

    • Gradient hatching displays correctly in PDFs exported with EXPORTPDF. [DESKTOP-403481]

    • German UI command name corrected to 'EXPORTSKETCHUP' for consistency. [DESKTOP-404213]

    • OLE objects print correctly in monochrome when using monochrome.ctb settings. [DESKTOP-161502]

    • Ultra high resolution paper sizes for JPG/PNG printers are supported, enhancing print quality. [DESKTOP-330886]

    • High-resolution paper sizes from ACAD PC3 files are imported correctly in ARES. [DESKTOP-330890]

    • Paper size settings are retained when saving as a PCX file, ensuring consistent print results. [DESKTOP-335706]

    • Exporting to PDF no longer shows unwanted shadows and surfaces, ensuring clean output. [DESKTOP-367128]

    • Resolved issue where '0.000' persisted in the 'X' line-edit of PRINT > OFFSET after erasing all values. [DESKTOP-371604]

    • Resolved issue with 'Rendered' print style producing incorrect results and poor PDF quality, ensuring background color is respected and text and geometry appear sharp. [DESKTOP-385043]

    • The print stamp now appears in preview and output even without opening its settings dialog. [DESKTOP-390946]

    • Text box backgrounds display correctly in PDFs exported. [DESKTOP-391116]

    • Creating SMARTLEADERs in Left or Right views no longer causes errors or hatch visibility issues. [DESKTOP-392620]

  • Geometry draw or modification:

    • Color Books colors are correctly applied to solid object faces in EDITSOLID. [DESKTOP-394451]

    • Circle's plane alignment updates correctly when moved along Z-axis. [DESKTOP-395125]

    • The SHADEVIEW command issue where dimensions and text were missing in views other than 2D wireframe has been resolved, ensuring all elements display correctly across different shading modes. [DESKTOP-49002]

    • The Rectangle tool's fillet values are preserved when using the Parallelogram option, ensuring consistent design results. [DESKTOP-264220]

    • The AREA command correctly calculates area and perimeter for polylines again. [DESKTOP-378976]

    • Dynamic Input for line extension correctly calculates the new length. [DESKTOP-384925]

    • PROPERTYPAINTER settings dialog retains 'LineStyle/LineScale/Thickness' options after reopening. [DESKTOP-392536]

    • Hatch command no longer causes freezing the cursor when specifying internal points. [DESKTOP-327476]

    • HATCH command correctly fills circular boundaries in blocks. [DESKTOP-358705]

    • The pattern list in the Hatch/Gradient Contextual Ribbon no longer shows incorrect entries when selecting gradients and hatches. [DESKTOP-371279]

    • The Gradient pattern displayed correctly after using the match property on the Hatch/Gradient Contextual Ribbon. [DESKTOP-372095]

    • Hatch patterns in blocks with Smartleader no longer appear segmented when boundaries are removed. [DESKTOP-382078]

    • The HATCH command respects the current transparency setting by default. [DESKTOP-387540]

    • HATCH updates correctly when manipulating boundaries with block attributes. [DESKTOP-387581]

    • Smart Select can now identify hatching by pattern name in Japanese language settings. [DESKTOP-393416]

    • Color 1 in HATCH no longer resets to 'Red' when switching pattern types. [DESKTOP-395907]

    • Resolved an issue where adding an entity to a hatch boundary in the ribbon menu caused the hatch pattern to revert to the last created one. [DESKTOP-396945]

    • Opening drawings with dense Hatch patterns is now faster, enhancing performance. [DESKTOP-376130]

    • Resolved an issue where deleting entities left unwanted 'Hatch' artifacts visible in drawings. [DESKTOP-383867]

    • Entities on locked layers no longer get selected with MAKEBLOCK after using LAYISO. [DESKTOP-387438]

    • Resolved issue with incorrect object selection caused by specific lines in drawings. [DESKTOP-303823]

    • CURVEDTEXT command in XtraTools is generating the preview. [DESKTOP-361464]

    • The Color Order dialog in DRAWORDERBYCOLOR now correctly displays the color of selected entities. [DESKTOP-389421]

    • The FLATTEN command error and delay post-Audit have been resolved. [DESKTOP-390024]

    • XDATA command options are fully translated into Japanese for better usability. [DESKTOP-394359]

  • Blocks and Data extraction:

    • Users can now utilize the ROLLVIEW command in Block Editor. [DESKTOP-97527]

    • EDITCOMPONENT command no longer changes colors of non-block entities. [DESKTOP-397546]

    • Block attributes with field formulas update correctly in drawings after using 'REBUILDALL'. [DESKTOP-401641]

    • Exiting the block editor after changing visibility states prompts users to save changes. [DESKTOP-373675]

    • Users can now add multiple block attributes to the CBTABLE without issues. [DESKTOP-386774]


  • Annotations:

    • Numerical value '1' in table cells displays correctly when using Bold or Italic styling. [DESKTOP-276562]

    • The 'Change Main Dictionary' dialog in the 'SPELLCHECK' command no longer shows duplicate options. [DESKTOP-358730]

    • The ESC key can now successfully cancel AI actions during translation, preventing infinite wait times. [DESKTOP-362098]

    • Resolved issue where text properties were lost when editing with 'Stack/Unstack' in Mtext. [DESKTOP-364491]

    • Creating a datalink with Excel files containing multi-line text is functional, resolving issues with the OK button being inactive. [DESKTOP-370938]

    • The 'Underline' feature in EDITANNOTATION consistently displays in the dynamic preview. [DESKTOP-385439]

    • Undo and Redo functions in the In-Place Text Editor work seamlessly after using Paragraph options. [DESKTOP-389709]

    • Replacing words in the Note Editor no longer affects entire paragraphs. [DESKTOP-389753]

    • Toolbar buttons activate when selecting text with Shift+Arrow keys. [DESKTOP-390303]

    • Undo/Redo functions properly after editing stacked text in the Stack Properties dialog. [DESKTOP-390324]

    • Backspace key functionality restored for editing bullets in multi-column MText notes. [DESKTOP-390627]

    • The 'Find and Replace' command in NOTE reliably locates the first instance of text, eliminating premature 'Search finished' messages. [DESKTOP-392534]

    • Text and symbols display correctly in ARES, ensuring proper alignment and visibility. [DESKTOP-392675]

    • Uniform text height in Mtext editor for consistent appearance. [DESKTOP-395596]

    • The FIND command's 'Use wildcards' option operates correctly, enhancing search accuracy. [DESKTOP-398205]

    • The 'Continue' dimension feature has been resolved to function correctly with 'Parallel' dimensions. [DESKTOP-275233]

    • Background color option for Dimension Style Text Fill has been introduced, allowing users to enhance text visibility against complex drawings. [DESKTOP-332758]

    • Mouse right-click for Enter now produces consistent dimension output as the Enter key. [DESKTOP-351209]

    • Duplicate symbols in dynamic preview for 'Radius' and 'Diameter' have been resolved. [DESKTOP-394665]

    • SmartLeader lines align correctly with text, ensuring accurate placement. [DESKTOP-310028]

    • Resolved issue where underlining a NOTE added unwanted characters. [DESKTOP-388046]

  • Graphic System:

    • Comparison preview and cursor visibility restored during zoom in/out in Drawing Compare. [DESKTOP-89029]

    • Experience faster performance with ORBIT, as spatial recalculation is disabled during use. [DESKTOP-315876]

    • Zooming over long polylines with specific linestyles no longer causes the application to hang. [DESKTOP-391298]

    • Entity colors remain consistent when zooming in/out, resolving display issues on NVIDIA P600/P620. [DESKTOP-391393]

    • 3D solids in 'Wireframe' visual style display correctly during zoom in/out. [DESKTOP-391398]

    • Resolved display issues on NVIDIA RTX 4000 Ada Generation when zooming in or out. [DESKTOP-392192]

    • Rendering glitches during pan or zoom with background images have been resolved. [DESKTOP-395510]

    • The preview of source geometry in Dark Style UI Sheet space no longer appears broken when rotating or moving entities. [DESKTOP-395640]

    • Trimmed ellipse parts no longer appear in the Drawing area when deselected. [DESKTOP-395664]

    • Pressing Esc during -EDITBLOCKATTRIBUTE command correctly removes entity highlights. [DESKTOP-350333]

    • Resolved issue where unnecessary entities remained highlighted after using -EDITBLOCKATTRIBUTE and switching sheets. [DESKTOP-350336]

    • Selecting Mleader and after dimension no longer causes ARES to freeze on MacOS. [DESKTOP-391891]

    • Resolved crash when closing Block Editor with Realistic shade mode active. [DESKTOP-377449]


  • User interface:

    • The text cursor in the EDITANNOTATION command for multi-column notes has been corrected to appear at the start of the text, ensuring a consistent editing experience. [DESKTOP-370712]

    • Resolved a crash issue when selecting 'Specify Color' twice in the Layer Manager palette using the Korean language. [DESKTOP-383210]

    • The warning message for duplicate workspace names has been corrected for clarity. [DESKTOP-85941]

    • Workspace names in the Customize dialog are displayed in Japanese, ensuring a seamless experience for Japanese users. [DESKTOP-285059]

    • The FIELD dialog now retains the last selection of properties, ensuring a smoother editing experience. [DESKTOP-371319]

    • The 'News' palette has been removed, with content accessible in the 'Learn' tab on the Start page. [DESKTOP-387219]

    • Floating window geometry and Qinput box preview correctly update when switching windows during active commands. [DESKTOP-388261]

    • Icons for 'OK' and 'Cancel' in 'Create New Visual Style' dialog have been restored. [DESKTOP-390959]

    • The 'Create New Visual Style' button tooltip in the Visual Style Manager Palette has been updated to accurately reflect the dialog's name, ensuring clarity for users. [DESKTOP-390964]

    • Case sensitivity in the Rename dialog has been resolved, preventing duplicate entries. [DESKTOP-391080]

    • Display icon colors in the Hatch/Fill dialog are correctly shown. [DESKTOP-391259]

    • Vertical lines in the Japanese IMPORT SVG dialog have been resolved for a cleaner Light UI. [DESKTOP-392851]

    • Screen flickering and tab duplication issue resolved when creating new drawings on Linux. [DESKTOP-394485]

  • BIM Features:

    • Sorting columns in DataExtraction no longer resets when navigating with BACK and NEXT. [DESKTOP-347011]

    • Artefacts in paper space after reloading a tile have been resolved. [DESKTOP-353007]

    • Resolved frequent crashes when closing a drawing after running automation tasks. [DESKTOP-381620]

    • BIMGRIDLINES creation in Section drawings has been restored, ensuring functionality for horizontal sections. [DESKTOP-389472]

    • Resolved crash issue when selecting entities post-Automation in BIM models. [DESKTOP-390084]

    • BIM floor list displays all floors, regardless of visibility state. [DESKTOP-390507]

    • Dropdown options in BIMAUTOALL/BIMAUTODRAWINGS are now visible in Light UI on Mac OS. [DESKTOP-391969]

    • Automation process crash issue in BIM component has been resolved. [DESKTOP-392615]

    • The BIMBUILDINGPOSITION display issue in specific scenarios has been resolved, ensuring accurate model positioning visibility after using undo and show commands in BIM Navigator. [DESKTOP-393585]

    • Wall dimensions are accurately measured as a whole, avoiding incorrect points at joins. [DESKTOP-272524]

    • Resolved missing hatch issue in BIM drawings, ensuring complete and accurate wall representation. [DESKTOP-377373]

    • Resolved an error in BIM Drawing when deleting an entity and running Audit. [DESKTOP-393168]

    • Resolved crash issue with BIMAUTOALL after replacing BIM models and mapping materials. [DESKTOP-393552]

    • Material mappings in BIM Drawing Automation are preserved after automation runs. [DESKTOP-393907]

    • BIMADJUSTLABEL command consistently functions across multiple scales in the same plan. [DESKTOP-336868]

    • BIM Labels remain visible after reopening unsaved drawings. [DESKTOP-392885]

    • Importing sheets no longer causes a crash when the sheet set is closed. [DESKTOP-393964]

  • Cloud and Commenting:

    • Editing sessions from cloud storage can be resumed after 50 minutes of inactivity without error. [DESKTOP-117655]

    • Users can manually enter or paste folder names in the cloud storage palette for quicker access. [DESKTOP-331776]

    • Search in cloud storage palette now includes a filter to refine results in Box. [DESKTOP-331780]

    • Resolved crash when zooming on maps saved in Cloud Storage. [DESKTOP-392013]

    • Resolved crash when opening cloud-stored drawings with Xrefs and switching to Start Page. [DESKTOP-394119]

    • Japanese text pasted into the comment palette's description field displays correctly. [DESKTOP-394691]

    • Reopening drawings from cloud storage no longer disables 'Add Comment' and 'Add Markup' buttons. [DESKTOP-395263]

  • API and Customization:

    • Resolved a crash issue when initializing PyPCAD() via the Python API, ensuring stable system performance. [DESKTOP-384500]

    • Compatibility with AutoCAD API for PickfirstSelectionSet has been restored. [DESKTOP-395094]

    • The crash occurring when activating the 'Color Book' page in the fdt_getcolorindex function has been resolved. [DESKTOP-389903]

    • Resolved an issue where calling ColorDialog in a custom Modal Dialog via LISP caused it to lose its modal properties and the mouse cursor to disappear in the drawing area. [DESKTOP-337059]

    • SAFETYOPTIONS on MacOS has been corrected to retain additional paths after restarting ARES Commander. [DESKTOP-361829]

    • The LISP command (acad_colordlg 0) no longer causes ARES to crash when accessing the 'Color Book' tab. [DESKTOP-389897]

    • Resolved crash when using LISP acad_truecolordlg; RGB page now appears in Line Color dialog. [DESKTOP-389899]

    • The LISP variable 'inf' no longer causes an error or changes to 'Infinity'. [DESKTOP-398034]

    • Print Preview dialog displays correctly when using PlotFactory.CreatePreviewEngine. [DESKTOP-371247]

    • Resolved issue where printing UCS drawings to PDF with PlotType set to Window resulted in blank outputs. [DESKTOP-373260]

    • SelectionRemovedEventArgs event in .NET includes 'RemovedObjects' property, enhancing dynamic filtering. [DESKTOP-397489]

    • Dragging toolbars over On-screen view controls no longer opens the menu unexpectedly. [DESKTOP-313647]

    • Users can now set the default save format to any supported file type without it reverting. [DESKTOP-183112]

    • The 'Enable splitting dimension line' option in DRAFTINGOPTIONS is functional, allowing users to split extension lines as expected. [DESKTOP-385825]


  • External References:

    • Selecting multiple referenced files in 'Replace path' now correctly shows an empty 'Saved path' field when paths differ. [DESKTOP-371958]

    • Resolved issue with ATTACHIMAGE where users received an error message despite the image being loaded in the drawing. [DESKTOP-384466]

    • MacOS users can now apply a new path to all missing xrefs when updating one in the References palette. [DESKTOP-390715]

    • Datalink references now correctly resolve when applying a new path to multiple missing Excel files. [DESKTOP-393229]


  • License:

    • Licensing messages now specify the valid version of your license, avoiding confusion. [DESKTOP-354726]

    • Correct error messages for REPRISE time setback on macOS, reducing support confusion. [DESKTOP-360289]


  • Performance:

    • Opening specific drawings in ARES has been optimized for faster performance. [DESKTOP-376016]

    • Zooming in specific drawings has been optimized for smoother performance on laptops with Intel Iris Graphics. [DESKTOP-317834]


  • AI Resources:

    • AI Text Support options activate correctly after importing text in NOTE command. [DESKTOP-388091]


    If you are facing issues that are crashing the application, please use the Crash Report tool to let us know about it. If possible, it's always useful to provide the reproduction steps in the comments section of the Crash Report tool.

Build No. 26.1.1.2171 (SP1) - Released 03/07/2025

Below you can find the main fixes and new improvements on ARES Commander 2026 SP1:

  • Print, export and sheets:

    • Sorting in Batch Print has been restored, allowing users to organize files by filename, page layout, or status as expected. [DESKTOP-347669]

    • Page numbers in Sheet Set Manager display correctly. [DESKTOP-385769]

    • Draw order from DGN files is respected during import, ensuring correct layer display. [DESKTOP-263674]

    • Improve DXFOUT output on MacOS to be consume in some laser cutting machines. [DESKTOP-364656]

    • Resolved crash when importing specific DGN files using IMPORTDGN command. [DESKTOP-374003]

    • EXPORTPDF performance improved for large drawings, preventing software freeze. [DESKTOP-376021]

    • Set default plot styles in ARES for consistent new drawing prints. [DESKTOP-107090]

    • Resolved issue causing hang when specifying 'Print Range' in PRINT command. [DESKTOP-354108]

    • Simplenote widths display correctly with specific TrueType fonts during printing. [DESKTOP-367100]

    • Kanji characters in PDFs are now correctly recognized during searches. [DESKTOP-369284]

    • Resolved crash when zooming in/out in print preview with 'PNG' plotter. [DESKTOP-370994]

    • Symbol text entities display correctly in print preview and final PDF output. [DESKTOP-384169]

    • Entities no longer disappear during PAN operations, ensuring a stable view. [DESKTOP-318115]

    • View tile boundaries no longer overlap when resizing grips. [DESKTOP-361045]

    • COPY and MOVE commands function correctly in orthogonal mode for all 3D views. [DESKTOP-362777]

    • Zooming no longer reverts UCS from 'World' when UCSVP is set to 0. [DESKTOP-382403]


  • Geometry draw or modification:

    • The PUSHPULL command no longer causes the application to hang when used in specific drawings containing blocks. [DESKTOP-355157]

    • Resolved error when trimming closed polylines with hatches using window selection. [DESKTOP-318856]

    • PEDIT command reliably joins polylines after using WELD, maintaining the outer profile when OFFSET is applied. [DESKTOP-363047]

    • The FILLET command no longer adds an extra line when creating sharp corners between two polylines. [DESKTOP-368488]

    • Default Fillet Radius set to 0 for consistency with other CAD software. [DESKTOP-372958]

    • Resolved issue with arcs not extending when using EXTEND command with specific boundaries. [DESKTOP-385733]

    • Hatch updates correctly when multileader text inside boundary is edited. [DESKTOP-237908]

    • Hatch associativity remains intact when modifying pattern properties. [DESKTOP-316177]

    • HATCH command successfully creates hatches even if the entire boundary isn't visible. [DESKTOP-350730]

    • Resolved crash when changing hatch patterns in DWG files. [DESKTOP-356207]

    • Hatch color remains consistent after boundary deletion and recreation. [DESKTOP-362840]

    • Dialog box for Hatch/Fill can be closed after disabling the contextual ribbon. [DESKTOP-363560]

    • Hatch command accurately fills specified internal regions. [DESKTOP-367333]

    • Hatch area values display accurately for selected hatches. [DESKTOP-378402]

    • Polar and Entity tracking visibility restored for large coordinates. [DESKTOP-281721]

    • EGrip position updates correctly when changing text justification in non-English languages. [DESKTOP-356379]


  • Blocks and Data extraction:

    • Visibility State toggle in Block Editor no longer triggers unwanted window selection. [DESKTOP-364543]

    • 3D solids display correctly when editing components in ARES. [DESKTOP-303033]

    • REGEN command no longer resets block attribute values to zero after copying or moving. [DESKTOP-321444]

    • Resolved crash when pasting Block with Fields from ARES into AutoCAD. [DESKTOP-321816]

    • Attribute values in Block Property Table retain custom settings when modified using grips. [DESKTOP-344515]

    • ESnaps function correctly with dynamic blocks having alignment action. [DESKTOP-360767]

    • ATTIN command now imports all attributes from .txt files correctly. [DESKTOP-371364]

    • The MAKEBLOCKATTRIBUTE command no longer duplicates the 'Name' field text in the 'Default value' when creating a Multiline attribute. [DESKTOP-374013]

    • Resolved error when copying and pasting all entities in a drawing, eliminating duplicate block definition messages. [DESKTOP-376472]

    • Parallel constraint icons now update with dimension formula changes. [DESKTOP-385003]

    • Arrow keys in CBTABLE now navigate cells smoothly within block properties. [DESKTOP-366411]

    • Canceling the block property dialog no longer resets 'Attribute' values to default in CBTABLE. [DESKTOP-367949]

    • Visibility states in Dynamic Blocks function correctly even with the Property palette open. [DESKTOP-374266]

    • Stretching Custom Blocks to the left with increments works smoothly. [DESKTOP-377749]

    • The 'Select data link' label in the Data Extraction dialog is now translated into the local language. [DESKTOP-354295]

    • Resolved issue where non-leader annotation text copied to 'Tool Palettes' included unwanted annotations. [DESKTOP-358602]


  • Annotations:

    • The Mtext toolbar consistently appears above text, even on a secondary monitor. [DESKTOP-59160]

    • MacOS users will see correct formula results in tables, resolving invalid '###' display. [DESKTOP-177581]

    • Editing stacked text in tables no longer reduces text height with each edit. [DESKTOP-275782]

    • Resolved crash when switching between Pause and Stop while playing a Voice note. [DESKTOP-366378]

    • Resolved an application crash when pasting after cutting without selection in EDITANNOTATION. [DESKTOP-376392]

    • Corrected the alignment issue when entering text with the MTEXT command. [DESKTOP-383664]

    • Users will see accurate color updates in the Edit Dimension Style Manager and Options dialogs. [DESKTOP-353277]

    • RADIUSDIMENSION and DIAMETERDIMENSION lines return to original position after scale adjustment. [DESKTOP-354136]

    • Select Matching command now selects only the same type of dimension, aligning with expected behavior. [DESKTOP-357441]

    • CONTINUEDIMENSION command reliably creates dimensions as expected. [DESKTOP-365515]

    • DIMCEN system variable is now considered in 'Differences' for DIMENSIONSTYLE. [DESKTOP-368386]

    • Continued dimensions now align correctly when UCS is not set to World. [DESKTOP-382382]

    • Multileader position remains stable with 'Underline bottom line' setting. [DESKTOP-374750]

    • Multileader text alignment issue with half-width characters has been resolved. [DESKTOP-378944]

    • Resolved issue with EDITMULTILEADER command not functioning for multi leaders containing Blocks or Tolerance. [DESKTOP-383394]

    • Resolved issue with blank cells when pasting Excel data using PASTESPEC. [DESKTOP-349240]

    • Pressing 'Esc' during 'EDITTABLE' command now cancels actions before cell selection. [DESKTOP-358005]

    • Stretching the lower right 'Grip' of a table now shows the correct preview and behavior. [DESKTOP-376004]


  • Graphic System:

    • Field text visibility issue in shaded visual style with LWeight display ON resolved. [DESKTOP-374667]

    • ISOLATEENTITIES command ensures only isolated entities are selected for modification. [DESKTOP-253555]

    • Resolved issue where switching to '2D Wireframe' caused 3D solids to display artifacts. [DESKTOP-354483]


  • User interface:

    • Layer Manager - LineWeight settings remain consistent when activating layer states in viewports. [DESKTOP-347684]

    • Palette - The 'Measure Circumference' button icon in the Smart Calculator dialog displays correctly with a white frame. [DESKTOP-361943]

    • The Maximize/Minimize Ribbon button in the Light UI is now clearly visible and active. [DESKTOP-352284]

    • Tooltip for 'Report a bug' in Help drop-down now correctly displays 'web browser' and includes the command name at the end. [DESKTOP-48890]

    • Exiting ARES after docking a floating window post-sheet merge no longer causes a crash. [DESKTOP-350090]

    • Task bar preview displays correctly when using a high-resolution monitor as the primary screen. [DESKTOP-352964]

    • UCSICON size properly adjusts with UI scaling for better visibility. [DESKTOP-353849]

    • Restoring 'Sheet and Model Tabs' after docking a floating window is now seamless. [DESKTOP-353894]

    • The 'View Navigator' remains visible when floating a document window. [DESKTOP-354359]

    • UI scaling issue resolved when moving the application between screens with different resolutions. [DESKTOP-360355]

    • Mnemonics in the Color Books tab of the Line Color dialog are functioning correctly. [DESKTOP-361174]

    • The 'Relative point' icon in the 'Coordinate System' dialog for 'ENTERPOINT' command is visible. [DESKTOP-361964]

    • The ENTERPOINT command no longer retains unwanted values when using crossing selection. [DESKTOP-362074]

    • Syntax error in Color Book dialog when accessing .acb files has been resolved. [DESKTOP-364163]

    • The 'Color Book - Missing Color Book' message alignment has been corrected for better readability. [DESKTOP-365309]

    • Empty color fields in the LINECOLOR dialog now prompt an alert, preventing accidental acceptance. [DESKTOP-368786]

    • Layer dropdown in Hatch Ribbon expands for longer names, enhancing usability. [DESKTOP-369266]

    • Sample files on the Start page remain visible even after changing the drawing file path. [DESKTOP-380183]

    • The 'Learning' tab on startup provides immediate feedback if content loading is delayed. [DESKTOP-380244]

    • Application no longer freezes when displaying pull-down menus on macOS. [DESKTOP-380999]

    • Japanese MacOS users will see correct characters in 'View Tile Control'. [DESKTOP-383689]

    • Quick Settings labels display fully at larger scales, ensuring readability. [DESKTOP-386840]


  • BIM Features:

    • BIMSECTION creation now uses the correct template name. [DESKTOP-346695]

    • Resolved audit errors when binding BIM drawings, ensuring smoother workflows. [DESKTOP-359020]

    • German translations in BIM Navigator have been corrected for clarity. [DESKTOP-359897]

    • The OK button in FIELD > BIM > Entity is now active after specifying a BIM entity, allowing users to insert properties as fields seamlessly. [DESKTOP-363042]

    • BIM Grid Lines button is disabled for vertical BIM sections, preventing incorrect usage. [DESKTOP-368054]

    • The BIMAUTOPUBLISH variable correctly stops automatic PDF generation when set to 0. [DESKTOP-372787]

    • PACKANDGO operation can be run multiple times without issues. [DESKTOP-373067]

    • UNDO/REDO actions no longer cause crashes when reloading BIM models from BIM Navigator. [DESKTOP-374401]

    • The dialog box title in BIMDIMENSIONSTYLE has been corrected to 'BIM Styles Manager' for clarity. [DESKTOP-370776]

    • The BIMSPLITDRAWING command no longer crashes the application when used on drawings containing pasted BIM models, ensuring a smoother workflow. [DESKTOP-355675]

    • BIM Drawing - Users can customize hatches for cut and background lines in BIM drawings. [DESKTOP-357961]

    • Materials mapped to entities are now visible in Elevations, enhancing visual consistency. [DESKTOP-357823]

    • Mapping materials by IFC class allows users to assign materials to entire categories, streamlining the process and enhancing efficiency in managing BIM materials. [DESKTOP-357959]

    • Select a JSON material file for precise BIM material mapping. [DESKTOP-376395]


  • API and Customization:

    • UCSXDIR variable updates correctly with LISP commands in new drawings. [DESKTOP-363526]

    • Macro for text justification in AutoCAD and ARES Commander executes correctly, ensuring precise text alignment. [DESKTOP-347863]

    • Icons in the [Commands] section of the [Customize] dialog box are visible again. [DESKTOP-361702]

    • White lines in 'Borders' of TABLESTYLE dialog have been resolved for clearer visibility. [DESKTOP-357664]


  • External References:

    • The 'Replace path' function in References now correctly updates all selected references. [DESKTOP-371660]

    • Resolved hanging issue when replacing 'Not found' files in References. [DESKTOP-371668]

    • SAVECOMPONENT no longer crashes when editing specific drawings. [DESKTOP-371753]

    • Missing image xrefs now trigger a message box on drawing open. [DESKTOP-372363]

    • Line color changes in referenced drawings reflect correctly when set to "ByBlock". [DESKTOP-378776]


  • License:

    • Flex Network License License Manager window displays 'Max.Roam.Count' for clearer understanding of license limits. [DESKTOP-95995]

    • Resolved license deactivation when switching networks, ensuring seamless use across home and office. [DESKTOP-384471]


  • Performance:

    • Smooth cursor movement when adding continuous dimensions in ARES. [DESKTOP-274440]

    • Opening files with Chinese characters in names on Linux no longer causes crashes. [DESKTOP-386926]

    • Opening files with German umlauts in names no longer crashes ARES Commander on Linux. [DESKTOP-386928]

    • Selecting specific 3D solids no longer causes ARES to hang. [DESKTOP-312439]


  • AI Resources:

    • Users without a Kudo License will see a clear message in the A3 palette. [DESKTOP-375072]


    If you are facing issues that are crashing the application, please use the Crash Report tool to let us know about it. If possible, it's always useful to provide the reproduction steps in the comments section of the Crash Report tool.

Build No. 26.0.1.1124 (SP0) - Released 07/04/2025

You can check the full detail enhancement list for ARES 2026 products accessing http://www.graebert.com/whatsnew

YOU CAN QUICKLY REVIEW THE TOP UPDATES:

COMPATIBILITY WITH AUTOCAD®


NEW START TAB & UI CONFIGURATION

ARES Commander continues to evolve, delivering an even smoother and more intuitive user experience. The new Start Tab simplifies workspace customization, allowing users to easily configure their ribbons, palettes, and settings to fit their workflow preferences.

Additionally, the CAD General workspace — now enabled by default — provides a familiar environment for users transitioning from AutoCAD or similar CAD software.

CAD FEATURES


PERFORMANCE & STABILITY BOOSTS

This year, we prioritized performance and stability to enhance your workflow. These improvements have been successively released in recent service packs and in the new version 2026. Year over year, ARES Commander now delivers 10% faster file opening, 55% faster zooming, and 38% faster panning.
And our dedication to continually improving stability and reliability is yielding concrete results: 94% of users had ZERO crashes with version 2025 (vs. 91% with version 2024), and more than 99% of sessions had ZERO crashes with version 2025 (vs. more than 97% with version 2024).

CUSTOM BLOCKS WITH MULTIPLE VISIBILITY STATES

ARES Commander supports both AutoCAD®-compatible dynamic blocks and its own custom blocks, offering a powerful alternative. This year, custom blocks gained full support for multiple visibility states, making them functionally equivalent to dynamic blocks.
The Trinity Block Library, which was enriched last year with 450+ dynamic block examples, has now been further improved with more intuitive tools for adding blocks to your online libraries, making block sharing even easier.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE


AI ASSISTANCE FOR SELECTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS

First introduced in the previous version, ARES AI Assist (A3) now enables users to make selections and modifications using natural language through its dedicated side palette. Simply enter commands such as “Select all lines longer than 5 on the layer Windows” or “Move the selected entities to layer 0” to execute actions instantly. You can also modify properties effortlessly, via requests like “Change the color of all circles to red.”


AI-DRIVEN TEXT TOOLS & MTEXT IMPROVEMENTS

ARES Commander’s AI assistant, A3, now extends its capabilities to text editing. The MTEXT editor has been enhanced with AI-driven tools to translate, refine writing, check spelling, and summarize text, streamlining documentation tasks. Additionally, users can now format text into columns, improving readability and layout flexibility.

MAPS FEATURES


ECW FORMAT SUPPORT & FASTER LOADING OF ONLINE MAPS

ARES Commander now supports the ECW file format, allowing users to work seamlessly with highly compressed orthophotos, such as aerial images. This enhances ARES Commander’s Maps service, which lets users search and insert satellite or street maps with real-world coordinates. Additionally, the Maps service has been optimized for faster loading, ensuring a smoother experience when zooming and panning in the drawing.

3D FEATURES


3D RENDERING WITH TWINMOTION

ARES Commander now supports exporting DWG drawings to the Datasmith format, enabling users to create photo-realistic renderings and walkthrough videos in Twinmotion. This integration allows for material and lighting assignments, helping users produce high-quality visualizations of their 3D projects. Plus, Twinmotion is free for small and medium businesses with revenues up to $1 million USD.

INTEROPERABILITY


STEP IMPORT

The STEP format is a widely used standard for exchanging 3D geometry with software like SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, Autodesk Inventor, PTC Creo, and Onshape. With the new STEP Import feature, users can easily bring STEP models into their drawings as editable 3D solid DWG entities. These models can then be modified using ARES Commander’s 3D solid modeling tools, or sectioned to generate precise 2D drawings.

CONVERT DWG TO SKETCHUP

The new Export to SketchUp feature allows users to convert DWG files to the SKP format, which is widely used in 3D architectural design. This export supports both 2D drawings and 3D geometry, preserving essential elements while optimizing them for SketchUp. Depending on the view mode, users can export either a 2D plan view or full 3D models from their current drawing

DRAWINGS AUTOMATION FOR BIM


DRAWINGS AUTOMATION IMPROVEMENTS & BIM MATERIAL MAPPER

ARES Commander streamlines BIM-to-DWG workflows, enabling users to import Revit or IFC files and instantly generate 2D DWG drawings — including floorplans, sections, and elevations — with automatic dimensions and labels. New features include support for grid lines, stairs representation, automatic drawing splits, and more.
Additionally, the BIM Material Mapper allows users to customize BIM material representations in 2D drawings and save configurations as JSON files for easy sharing and reuse. This enhances standardization while enabling users to create and switch between different drawing styles (for example, one style for architecture, one for fire ratings, and another one for the sales department)

System Requirements

Windows OS

Minimum

  • 64-bit version: Microsoft® Windows 10 or Windows 11 (with latest Updates and Service Packs)

  • Intel® i3 processor (6th generation) or AMD® Ryzen 3 (2nd generation)

  • 8GB RAM

  • 5 GB free hard disk space on SSD depending on accessory applications installed

  • 3D Graphics accelerator card with 1 GB GPU memory and DirectX 9 compliant (OpenGL version 2.0 or better)

  • Display with 1280 x 768 pixels resolution with True Color (100% DPI scaling)

  • Mouse

For a good experience we recommend

  • 64-bit version: Microsoft® Windows® 10 or Windows® 11 (with latest Updates and Service Packs)

  • CPU Intel® i5/i7/i9 processor (8th generation or newer), AMD® Ryzen 5/7/9 processor (2nd generation or newer), or better

  • 16 GB RAM (or more)

  • 5 GB free hard disk space on SSD depending on accessory applications installed

  • 3D Graphics accelerator card with 1 GB or 2 GB GPU memory and DirectX 12 compliant (OpenGL version 4.3 or better) | (Nvidia – GeForce 700/800/900 series, GeForce RTX 20/30/40 series, GeForce GTX 16 series, GeForce MX 300/400/500 series or ATI)

  • Full HD monitor (1920 x 1080 pixels) or 4K Display (3840 x 2160 pixels) with True Color

  • Wheel mouse, or 3D mouse

ARM processor architecture under Windows is not supported yet.
Windows Terminal Servers are not supported.

MacOS

  • Intel Version: Mac® with Intel® Core™ i5 processor or better

  • ARM Version: Apple M1 ARM-based systems or better

  • v13 (Ventura), v14 (Sonoma) or macOS v15 (Sequoia)

  • 8 GB of RAM (16 GB or more recommended)

  • 5 GB of available hard-disk space for installation

  • 3D Graphics accelerator card with OpenGL version 2.0 (OpenGL version 3.3 or better recommended)

  • Display with 1280 x 768 pixels resolution, or better

  • Mouse (Wheel mouse recommended)

Linux

  • Ubuntu® 24.04 LTS, Fedora® 39

  • Intel® i3 processor (6th generation) or AMD® Ryzen 3 (2nd generation) or better

  • 8 GB of RAM (16 GB or more recommended)

  • 5 GB of available hard-disk space on SSD for installation

  • 3D Graphics accelerator card with OpenGL version 2.0 (OpenGL version 3.3 or better recommended)

  • Display with 1280 x 768 pixels resolution, or better

  • Mouse (Wheel mouse recommended)

Note: Product activation requires a network interface card.

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