Octave BricsCAD V27: what’s new in the DWG-based AutoCAD alternative

Octave BricsCAD V27 is the latest release of Octave’s DWG-based CAD software (formerly Bricsys), launched on October 20, 2026. It adds BricsCAD Assist, an AI assistant built into the software, better compatibility with AutoCAD Dynamic Blocks, and new surveying, BIM and mechanical tools. It runs on Windows, Mac and Linux with a 30-day free trial, and Aufiero sells official licenses across Latin America.

If you already know BricsCAD, this release matters for two reasons: it brings AI into the application, and it makes life easier for teams coming from other CAD tools, without changing the file format you work in. Here is the short version; the full detail is in Octave’s official tutorials.

BricsCAD Assist: AI inside your CAD

BricsCAD Assist is an AI chat panel built into Octave BricsCAD. It helps you find documentation, commands and tips without leaving the drawing: ask a question, get the answer and keep working. It is unique to Octave BricsCAD.

Switching from AutoCAD just got easier

Octave BricsCAD V27 improves Dynamic Block compatibility: you can insert, edit and apply constraints to block libraries brought over from other CAD tools, without rebuilding them. Neutral exchange file formats also make it easier to produce detailed 2D documentation without redoing work.

Everything else stays familiar: same DWG, familiar commands and LISP support. If you are weighing the switch, also read why Octave BricsCAD is a professional AutoCAD alternative and our guide to migrating without losing your .dwg files.

Faster 2D drafting

The interface gets several upgrades for people who draw all day: dynamic input at the cursor, a Quad marking menu with gestures, customizable tool palettes and a searchable settings dialog. Quick dimensioning (QDIM) now works in blocks, paper space, viewports and ViewBase with fewer clicks. You can also tune drawing health checks to each project, which helps with complex or iterative drawings.

Surveying, BIM and mechanical updates

Surveying:

• Cut and fill calculated directly from section data, with quantity reports in one workflow.
• Auto Mapping builds linework from survey codes, with code search, bulk editing and smarter processing.
• Point clouds as lightweight mesh objects, with files up to 80% smaller and full compatibility with other civil engineering products.
• Smoother TIN surface contours and more flexible styles for design, analysis and presentation.

BIM: model scan data to check as-built conditions against the design, and create and propagate properties between DWG drawings and BIM data, from bills of materials to bulk property updates.

Mechanical: Power Dimensions for manufacturing dimensions, text and leader styles for manufacturing symbols, sheet metal conversion, repair and unfolding, and multi-platform CAD import that keeps assembly structure and design intent.

Which Octave BricsCAD version is right for you?

• Lite: 2D drafting.
• Pro: 2D and 3D with surveying, point clouds and third-party apps.
• BIM: Pro plus BIM tools.
• Mechanical: Pro plus mechanical tools.
• Ultimate: Pro plus BIM and Mechanical.

Each is available as a perpetual license or a 1- or 3-year subscription, single-user or network. Learn more on the Octave BricsCAD page or see everything new on the Octave site.

How to try and buy Octave BricsCAD V27

Start with the 30-day free trial. When you are ready, official licenses are available through Aufiero, serving Latin America. Get in touch and request a quote.

FAQ

Aufiero Informática is an official Octave BricsCAD distributor in Latin America.