Dassault Systemes announced the free availability of the 3D XML Specifications and Player, which will enable users to view and manipulate rich 3D data in a variety of industrial, consumer and commercial environments. 3D XML is a universal, lightweight XML-based format that enables users to share live, accurate 3D data. Based on XML, it allows any software program to read, write, and enrich 3D XML content using standard tools. This capability is intended to facilitate broad adoption of 3D and will lower the cost of converting files from existing 3D formats. It provides multi-representation 3D structure, and compression for complex, accurate geometry, enabling rapid file transmission and shorter load times. Dassault Systemes uses the 3D XML format in its entire line of products: CATIA, DELMIA, ENOVIA, SMARTEAM, and SolidWorks. Moreover, all members of the CAA V5 and SolidWorks developer communities will de-facto endorse the 3D XML format and will deploy it on a wide scale to their end-users. The 3D XML Player leverages the 3D XML Specifications and extends the use of 3D beyond traditional PLM applications. 3D content can now be incorporated into a variety of media, including but not limited to technical documentation, maintenance manuals, marketing brochures, websites, and email. The 3D XML Player is designed to work with a wide range of application suites, including Microsoft Office, on the web with the Internet Explorer browser or as a standalone application. It delivers Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office plug-ins, with 3D XML drag-and-drop capabilities. http://www.3ds.com