Release notes 3.18.0 🔗
We’re thrilled to announce the release of Blendkit (formerly BlenderKit) add-on 3.18.0!
This version is a major step forward, introducing the ability to search, download, and install other add-ons directly from Blendkit — all inside Blender. Alongside this key feature, we’ve added a host of improvements, boosted multi-window performance, and polished the overall experience. We’ve also resolved the darker thumbnail issue in Blender 5.0, added support for Blender 5.1 Alpha — and kept solid compatibility all the way back to Blender 3.0 from 2021.
Blendkit just got even more powerful — let’s dive in!
✨ Improvements 🔗
🧩 New Add-on Asset Type — You can now search for add-ons directly in the Blendkit search bar! Filter by category, check pricing, purchase status, and install them instantly — either permanently or just for the current session.
🚫 Better Visual Feedback for Invalid Drops — When dragging an asset over a restricted area, a crossed thumbnail and “Cancel Drag & Drop” text now appear. The drag is simply canceled without any confusing error messages.
🖥️ Multi-Window & Multi-Monitor Improvements — The add-on now works smoothly across multiple windows and monitors! The experience should feel seamless, and we welcome your feedback on any remaining quirks.
🔧 Updated Blendkit Client Core — The Blendkit Client has been upgraded to Go v1.25, with refreshed dependencies for improved security and performance.
🎨 Color Space Fixes — Improved color space mode handling in non-3D areas and node editors.
🧱 Smarter Geometry Nodegroup Handling — Nodegroups now automatically create their target objects, making the workflow smoother and faster.
🐞 Bug Fixes 🔗
🌑 Fixed Darker Thumbnails in Blender 5.x — Corrected an issue where asset thumbnails appeared darker in search bar in Blender 5.0 and 5.1.
🧲 Drag & Drop in Blender 5.1 Alpha Restored — Fixed a major error that prevented assets from being placed in Blender 5.1 Alpha. Everything now works flawlessly again.
⚙️ Preferences Redraw Fixed — A small console error when calling redraw() from override_extensions_draw has been resolved.
🐧 Linux ARM64 Fix — The add-on now correctly identifies the aarch64 binary name on Linux ARM64 systems, ensuring full compatibility between Blendkit and the Client.
❌ Close Button Restored — The “X” button on asset detail popups now properly closes the window in Blender 5.0 and 5.1.
📦 Add-on Installation Fix — Extensions and add-ons now install correctly, even when unpacking is enabled. .zip unpacking settings are safely ignored.
And much more🎉 Thank You! 🔗
This release represents a big step forward for Blendkit, opening the door to new workflows and creative opportunities. Thank you for your feedback, contributions, and for all the inspiring work you share. We could not wish for a better birthday!
Make sure to restart Blender after updating to avoid any unexpected issues.
Keep creating, keep sharing, and as always — happy blending!
