Microsoft is bringing 3D printing to the cloud

Microsoft is extending its 3D modeling and printing application to the cloud, allowing users to create and print 3D objects with unconventional materials such as metals and ceramics. Users of Microsoft’s 3D Builder application will be able to create 3D models, get them printed remotely, and then get the end product delivered to their doorstep. Microsoft has tied up with 3D Systems, which offers a cloud-based 3D printing service called Cubify.

Back in November of last year, Microsoft enter the 3D printing space from a software standpoint. This is when they announced the release of the 3D Builder application for Windows 8.1 machines. Although a small step into the realm of 3D printing for Microsoft, there was little doubt, at least for me, that this was the precursor to a more elaborate plan for the software giant to capitalize on the emerging market. Today another step, this time a bit larger, has been taken in Microsoft’s jog towards a more expansive role within the industry. They have just announced an update to their 3D Builder application, with the release of 3D Builder App R5, an update which is sure to get the attention of the larger players within the 3D printing space.