Adobe debuts public beta of 3D design tool Project Neo

Adobe has officially released a public beta for Project Neo, a new tool designed to simplify 3D design for users traditionally accustomed to 2D design programmes.

Project Neo is now available at projectneo.adobe.com, allowing designers to create and edit 3D volumetric designs without requiring prior experience in complex 3D creation tools. The introduction aims to cater to designers working in applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator by providing intuitive controls and recognisable interfaces.

Project Neo simplifies the process of adding dimensions and depth to designs. The tool removes manual calculations, allowing users to create and edit 3D volumetric designs with greater flexibility, control, and precision, even without prior experience in 3D creation tools.

The software is recommended for brand and marketing graphics, icons, isometric illustrations, and even 3D pixel art. Designers can incorporate these dimensional elements into their 2D projects using a web-based platform that integrates smoothly with existing workflow processes. An added feature is the inclusion of Adobe's Scene to Image technology, which enhances user control over AI-generated images.

Project Neo extends its functionality by allowing it to import 2D SVG files, enabling seamless integration with Adobe Illustrator. The new public beta has also added Japanese language support, including compatibility with the Japanese variable font Momochidori.

Project Neo facilitates the rapid creation of design variations thanks to its non-destructive workflow. Users can adjust and reshape elements such as lighting and perspectives, combine and blend different shapes, and apply various style effects. Designers can easily transfer vector curves between Illustrator and Project Neo, streamlining the creation of 3D objects and expanding design possibilities.

Project Neo's web-based nature also supports collaborative activities. Users can share project links with team members and stakeholders via a web browser for real-time input and modifications. The design community has praised this collaborative feature.

Maggie Majerus Johnson, Founder and Designer at All Caps Design, said, "This is going to change the game for branding mockups!"

Project Neo also boasts a community where designers can explore, learn, and share their creative work. The platform's community gallery permits designers to view and interact with others' work, view step-by-step histories of project developments, and remix featured designs to create new projects.

Users can contribute their designs to the gallery, fostering a collaborative environment and inspiring fellow designers. Adobe invites feedback on Project Neo's public beta, encouraging designers to share their insights through community forums or platforms like Discord. This user input will help shape future enhancements of the tool.