TouchGFX Designer 4.17 has become available for download, the latest version of STMicroelectronics’ user interface (UI) design software featuring a user interface overhaul to make the application more intuitive. For instance, the new lobby provides a better overview of the boards and templates, which helps start projects faster.
There are also numerous quality-of-life improvements to streamline various processes. One example is the new tree view that makes locking items a lot more obvious. Another example is the presence of a new dark theme and new keyboard shortcuts for better workflows. Ultimately, ST says it’s vastly more than a simple coat of paint but a significant improvement to the creative process.
TouchGFX Designer 4.17 is unique because it represents a significant chapter since ST acquired TouchGFX in 2018 and since TouchGFX 4.13 became a member of the X-CUBE family in 2020. The new version now uses a colour palette similar to that of other ST utilities and also represents a new direction that better optimises processes. For instance, new icons at the top of the screen help access various categories quicker. Hence, with the latest version, inserting an image is as straightforward as clicking on an icon and selecting files. Similarly, all properties are now present in a panel on the right side of the screen for easier access. Developers can thus expect a more organic system with far less friction.
The new version is also a pivotal release for ST because it embodies its desire to work more closely with its community. The company says customers are expressing a desire to understand what the platform can do rather than what applications they can write. Hence, instead of traditional demos that showcase real-world software like a thermostat, ST has released showcases that feature what developers can do when they combine TouchGFX and an STM32 microcontroller.
One example is a dice that demonstrates how to efficiently use texture mapping. The demo shows how to optimise a system when switching from 2D to 3D or zooming in and out. A second example is a new screen transition demonstration featuring a list of animations.
Lastly, TouchGFX 4.17 also contains a ninja robot game showing interesting effects that only require simple bitmap graphics. TouchGFX documentation is already up to date with new guides and screenshots of TouchGFX Designer 4.17. Developers thus can thus rapidly become familiar with the new interface.
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