Dan Ritchie has released Howler 2026, an updated version of the unconventional and low-cost painting, animation and video-processing tool originally known as Project Dogwaffle. The application remains a sub-$100 offering, now pricing full licences at US $32.99 for Windows only. Notably, the developer had planned to cease work and make version 2025 free, but instead has resumed active development and shipped this new update .

New AI-Based Image Editing

A key addition is an experimental AI-based image editor. Users can now perform inpainting, colorising and upscaling by entering text descriptions of the edits they want. This expands Howler’s traditional natural-media painting roots into generative, AI-guided image editing.

Confetti Particle Tool

Howler 2026 also introduces the Confetti tool, designed for creating organic particle effects. The interface exposes controls over emitter shape, particle geometry, and parameters such as count, size and lifespan, enabling expressive, painterly FX directly within the app.

New Audio Recording and Editing Tools

Audio capabilities have been expanded as well. The software now includes audio recording functionality and a four-track audio editor, which supports multitrack editing, a feature that complements Howler’s existing animation and timeline tools.

Legacy Features Remain

Howler continues to support its established strengths in natural-media painting. It also retains basic 3D rendering (primarily for landscapes and foliage), timeline-based animation with onion-skinning, frame repair, retiming, and an exposure-sheet for lip-sync animation, ensuring that the core feature set remains intact.

Worth Testing in Production?

Howler 2026 delivers a quirky but cost-effective package of AI-powered image tools, particle effects and multitrack audio at just US $32.99 for Windows. Its experimental AI engine and new Confetti FX may interest concept artists, indie animators or production tool-devs seeking low-cost alternatives. As with any update, productions should test these new features thoroughly before integrating them into critical workflows.

The post Howler 2026 lands: AI inpainting, Confetti particles and four-track audio for under $33 first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.

Celsys has officially announced Clip Studio Paint 4.0, the forthcoming version of its acclaimed digital painting and 2D animation software, scheduled for release in March 2025.

Improved Finishing and Processing Features

One of the standout additions is the Puppet Warp tool, allowing users to pin specific areas of an image and manipulate them as if controlling a marionette. This functionality simplifies the process of adjusting character poses and other elements, making it as easy as pulling strings—minus the tangled mess.

The update also introduces improved filters, enabling real-time previews and comparisons during color correction and refinement. Notably, there’s a new filter designed to extract line art from images, and another that simulates camera lens blur effects. It’s like having a mini photography studio right inside your software, without the need for extra lighting.

Additionally, the Convert to Lines and Tones function has been revamped for more intuitive use. Users can now save frequently used settings as presets and select brush shapes for lines when working on vector layers. Think of it as having your favorite tools always within arm’s reach, without the cluttered workspace.

Enhanced 3D Features

For those integrating 3D elements into their 2D projects, CSP 4.0 offers the ability to draw directly on 3D primitives and drawing figures. This feature facilitates painting on 3D objects and creating guide lines or patterns for various angles and poses. It’s like turning your 3D models into interactive canvases—just don’t let them get a big head about it.

The software now supports casting shadows from 3D objects onto other 3D objects, aiding in the creation of cohesive scenes with accurate shadow placement. Additionally, STL file support allows for the import of 3D files commonly used in CAD applications, while BVH file support enables the import of motion data for pose references. For those working with 3D characters, VRM facial expression file support offers customization of facial expressions, adding another layer of depth to character design. It’s like giving your digital creations a full range of emotions—just hope they don’t develop a penchant for drama.

Improved Tools and Usability

The introduction of Object Snap enhances precision by allowing snapping when moving or transforming vector layers, rulers, text, and more. Users can snap to grids, guides, rulers, canvas edges, and the canvas center, facilitating quicker and more accurate object placement. It’s like having a magnetic personality, but for your design elements.

Selection tools have been improved to snap to content on the current layer or reference layers using the Lasso tool, streamlining the selection process. The Tool Sliders palette in Studio Mode now includes sliders for adjusting brush size and opacity, similar to those in Simple Mode, providing a more unified user experience. Additionally, the Tool and Sub Tool palettes have been revamped for better navigation, with merged tool groups and revamped brush shape presets that include traditional mediums. Frequently used tools are now more accessible, and users can select multiple tools for simultaneous export, deletion, or registration. It’s like having a well-organized toolbox—no more rummaging around for that elusive wrench.

Improved Export and Animation Features

The watermark feature has been enhanced with a noise pattern to better protect works uploaded online, and it now functions during batch exports. The timelapse function has also been improved, offering a file size prioritization setting to keep file sizes manageable. It’s like having a personal assistant who ensures your work is both secure and efficiently packaged.

For animators, CSP 4.0 introduces features requested by professionals, such as the ability to color code layers and cels within the Timeline palette and improved file naming settings for better organization. These enhancements aim to streamline the animation process, making it easier to work like the pros—minus the coffee-induced jitters.

The update also facilitates the creation of short-form videos by allowing the import of sound recordings as an audio layer, even on mobile devices. Users can add subtitles and hand-drawn illustrations to filmed videos and export them for online posting, bridging the gap between traditional animation and modern content creation. It’s like having a mini production studio in your pocket—just don’t sit on it.

Pricing and Availability

Clip Studio Paint 4.0 is slated for release in March 2025. The perpetual version (one-time purchase) for Windows and macOS is priced at $58.50 for the PRO edition and $258.00 for the EX edition. Owners of the Ver. 3.0 one-time purchase license can upgrade to Ver. 4.0 at discounted rates: $24.99 for PRO and $71.99 for EX. For detailed pricing information and upgrade options, visit Celsys’s official announcement.

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As always, while these new features are designed to enhance your creative process, it’s prudent to thoroughly test the software within your workflow before full integration. After all, even the most promising tools can have quirks—much like that one colleague who insists on using Comic Sans.

The post Celsys Announces Clip Studio Paint 4.0: A Feature-Rich Update first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.