After a few rather quiet years with minor improvements, Autodesk is finally releasing an update worthy of the name with the new version Plant 3D 2026. For us at IntegaDesign, this is a strong signal: Autodesk is listening to the voices of its users – and the Plant 3D community continues to grow.
A release with real added value
Many of the new features were long overdue. In the past, workarounds or manual interventions were often necessary – with this version, some of that is now a thing of the past. P&ID usage and the user interface have been improved. Here are our personal highlights:
What was previously only possible through risky interventions in the SQLite database is now possible directly via the user interface. This is a real advantage, especially for larger teams or after project changes.
Previously, the symbol path had to be defined on a project-specific basis. Now it can be managed centrally. This is ideal for standards and creating consistent work environments.
Finally: Selection lists can be shared and maintained centrally. With shared lists, you can now create a list in the P&ID section and use the same list in the Plant3D area. Previously, you had to create the same lists on both sides.
Anyone who works with large amounts of data will love this feature. Selection lists can be imported quickly and accurately via Excel – ideal for customer or project specifications. Existing or slightly longer lists can be conveniently imported, instead of having to laboriously create each row in the configuration.
The tedious task of clicking the pen for each individual attribute on device sockets is no longer necessary. Now it's faster, more intuitive, and more efficient—exactly our style.
Before inserting a new component, you can preview an equipment template. This saves time and prevents misplacement.
The Orthogonal Generation dialog now has two options designed to speed up the orthogonal generation process.
Especially for complex projects: Each port now displays its own properties, which makes modeling much clearer.
The biggest improvement is the redesigned Spec Editor. What used to be a tedious process of clicking back and forth between catalog and pipe spec is now available in a practical side-by-side view:
This is one of the most important updates for us in years. AutoCAD finally makes pipe specification maintenance productive and transparent.
Conclusion: Plant 3D lives and continues to evolve!
We're excited about this major step forward. Plant 3D 2026 clearly demonstrates that Autodesk takes its customers seriously. The new features not only improve workflows, but also make daily work with Plant3D more efficient, modern, and stable.
A strong signal for everyone who relies on this system – and a clear indication that engaging with feedback is worthwhile.
>>Header image AI created<<