# FreeCAD 1.1: Key Updates for Parametric Modeling
On March 24, 2026, FreeCAD 1.1 was released — an open-source parametric 3D editor for creating solid models and projection drawings. Builds are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The project uses Python and C++ under the LGPL v2.1 license, with the repository on GitHub. Since the 1.0 release in November 2024, developers have fixed numerous bugs from 1.0.0–1.0.2, improved UI/UX, the materials system, and the IDE. Code for topological naming has been added.
Jürgen Riegel, the project initiator (started in 2001 as GOM based on Qt, Python, and OpenCascade), noted the influence of experience with Catia V5 and QSpect. FreeCAD was registered in 2002 on the OpenCascade forum.
Warning: New features in 1.1 may break models in older versions, despite file backward compatibility.
Key Improvements in Interface and Rendering
Version 1.1 focuses on usability for mid-level and senior specialists:
- Improved Wayland support for Linux environments.
- Three-point lighting for realistic 3D rendering.
- Search bar in the settings editor.
- Transparent preview of parts.
- Interactive manipulators for Fillet and Chamfer.
- Clarify Selection tool for precise object selection.
Sketch axes are now infinite length, and group dragging works with multiple geometries at once. New orbit styles: Trackball Classic and Rounded Arcball.
New Tools in CAM and Assemblies
CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) capabilities have been expanded:
- New tool library system.
- Thread cutting operation.
- Updated Hole function with Whitworth thread support (BSW, BSF, BSP, NPT).
The Assembly workbench now includes animation. The Transform tool has been reworked for precise numeric input. Core Datum tools generate coordinate systems, base planes, lines, and points.
Option to automatically create external geometry as reference regardless of mode.
Updates in Meshes, Pipelines, and TechDraw
Netgen has been improved: simple meshes predominantly featuring extruded hexahedrons, second-order meshes with linear interpolation.
Spreadsheet now supports scaling. TechDraw:
- Insert Area Annotation.
- Angle display.
For pipelines:
- Data and Extractions widget.
- Calculator and Glyph filters.
These changes simplify workflow automation in complex projects.
Key Takeaways
- Bug fixes: Issues from 1.0.0–1.0.2 addressed, ensuring production stability.
- UI/UX upgrade: Wayland, settings search, manipulators — speed up iterations.
- CAM extensions: Tool libraries and standard threading for manufacturing.
- Compatibility: New features may conflict with older versions.
- Rendering and meshes: Three-point lighting and Netgen for high-fidelity models.
FreeCAD 1.1 is ideal for parametric design tasks requiring precision and extensibility through Python/C++.
— Editorial Team
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