TOLLAND, CT, July 2, 2025 – Mastercam 2026 is available, bringing new updates aimed at improving machining workflows and programming efficiency. The release introduces AI-assisted CAM features, expanded machining capabilities, and productivity improvements. The focus is to help manufacturers streamline operations, shorten programming time, and address common shop floor delays. Many of these updates are shaped by feedback from users and industry needs, targeting bottlenecks in toolpath control and process optimization. This release signals a step forward in making CAM workflows efficient and adaptable to contemporary manufacturing demands.
Increased Productivity Through Workflow Efficiency
A feature in Mastercam 2026 is its redesigned Solid Hole Functionality, which provides manufacturers with control over hole creation in solid models. The new three-panel interface – geometry selection, hole style, and advanced options – enables programmers to design hole features, reducing programming time for parts with multiple hole types and configurations.
“Our customers have been asking for more intuitive and powerful hole creation tools for years,” said Nand Shivkumar, chief innovation officer at Mastercam. “The new Solid Hole Functionality doesn’t just save time – it gives programmers the precision and flexibility they need to handle the most complex geometries with confidence.”
Recognizing that tool management creates programming bottlenecks, Mastercam 2026 introduces improvements to tool handling and organization:
The redesigned Mill Tool Holder Designer provides panel-based visual feedback and tool assembly workflows, while Lathe Generic Tool Catalog Support enables tool creation and standardization across multiple machines.
New Planes Manager: Features a tree structure with drag-and-drop organization, group creation capabilities, search and filtering functions, enabling programmers to manage part setups.
Enhanced Levels Manager: The tree-structured interface provides customization options, allowing users to organize and manage part modeling, work holding, and toolpath creation.
Safety Zone Motion Priority: Path optimization can be accomplished through three prioritization options which reduce air cutting time.
Higher Precision and Control in Complex Machining
Mastercam 2026 includes machining enhancements that enable machining with precision and control, delivering advanced geometries and part features.
OptiRough Critical Depths: This feature enables machining of flat areas, reducing cycle times while maintaining surface finish quality. Manufacturers can optimize roughing operations with depth control adapting to part geometry.
Tapered Helix Entry: Addressing challenges in deep pocket machining, this enhancement improves chip evacuation, provides coolant and air access, and extends tool life through entry strategies.
Enhanced Loft Surface Creation: Blending algorithms and sync options enable surface transitions when working with sculptured surfaces.
Expanded Mill-Turn and Integration Capabilities
Mastercam 2026 expands mill-turn functionality with Classic Mill Toolpath Support, enabling manufacturers to leverage Surface Rough, Surface Finish, and Wireframe toolpaths previously found in mill environments.
PrimeTurning updates include angled cuts, pinch turning capabilities, and finishing options, providing manufacturers with flexibility in turning operations.
AI-Enabled CAM Intelligence
Mastercam 2026 offers an adopter program for users interested in advanced manufacturing technology. This program includes access to Mastercam Copilot, an AI-driven programming assistant that supports enhancements in CAM software.
The first version of Mastercam Copilot includes two main features: Help feature gives natural-language answers to programming questions. Command feature guides users step by step through programming tasks by automating actions in the interface. Although still in Beta phase, feedback shows it could shorten training time and speed up programming work.
“We’re excited to give our most innovative customers early access to AI capabilities that could reshape how we approach CAM programming,” Shivkumar noted. “This early adopter program allows us to refine these features based on real-world feedback before full commercial release.”
Mastercam 2026 is available through Mastercam’s global network of authorized channel partners and Mastercam. The U.S. release is available while additional languages will be released in the coming months.
Source: Mastercam
About Mastercam
Mastercam is a computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software solution headquartered in Tolland, CT. Founded in 1983, the company has over 40 years of experience in providing advanced software tools for designers and NC programmers across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and consumer products. Mastercam offers a comprehensive suite of applications such as 2- through 5-axis milling, turning, wire EDM, router programming, plasma cutting, laser cutting, and 3D design and drafting. As of 2024, the company employs approximately 500 individuals. Mastercam is recognized as one of the widely used CAM software packages worldwide, with over 250,000 installations.