Preview: check out the new features in Smoke 2012

Edge Detect in action from Smoke 2012's new Flame FX toolset.

Most coverage of Autodesk from the past week may have centered on its upcoming releases of 3ds Max, Maya et al, but the developer also has other updates in the works, including its Mac-only finishing software, Smoke.

New features in Smoke 2012 include a revamped 3D lighting system, the Flame FX toolset for common effects-type tasks, and an updated UI.

Pricing remains unchanged at $14,995. We don’t have a definite release date yet, but the rest of Autodesk’s 2012 product line-up is scheduled to ship in April.

Key Features in Smoke 2012

• All-in-one editorial finishing workflow
  Proven creative tools and an efficient creative process combined in a single solution for finishing high quality content.
• Out-of-the-box S3D finishing
  Includes tools for editing, viewing, monitoring and compositing S3D content.
• Workflow with Final Cut Pro® and Media Composer® on the Mac
  Smoke fits into FCP and Media Composer workflows via AAF and XML import, and supports native media from H.264 from DSLRs to full-resolution R3D media.
• Platform accessibility for trial download NEW
  Added graphic card support and support for a number of Mac laptops and iMacs. Smoke also has added support for the Kona 3G card as well as the Avid Artist series control surface
• UI enhancements NEW
  A new Action Node Bin makes it easier than ever to get up and running on Smoke.
• Redesigned 3D lighting system in Action NEW
  A brand new lighting system that includes cast shadows and ultra-realistic 3D lighting artifacts.
• Flame FX NEW
  A comprehensive new set of creative and technical tools for common finishing tasks. Flame FX features Damage, Deform and Edge Detect creative tools as well as powerful technical tools such as Pixel Spread.