Movella has released Xsens Animate 2025, the latest evolution of its inertial motion capture software designed to significantly enhance animation workflows for the entertainment industry, including film, TV, and video games. Key advancements in this release include inertial motion capture’s first native male and female anatomy models, improved data accuracy through a more precise motion engine, and a refined user interface.
With a 20-year history in the entertainment industry, Movella’s Xsens technology provides lifelike motion data compatible with major 3D software like Unreal Engine, Unity, and Maya, utilizing cameraless technology for a seamless pipeline.
Anthony Romero, Senior Product Manager at Movella, emphasized the focus on performance over technology with Xsens Animate 2025, aiming to simplify setup, recording, and editing processes.
The update enhances realism with a more accurate 3D model representation within the software, particularly improving the spine model for standing and bending motions. The introduction of distinct male and female anatomy models, alongside the legacy option, offers more accurate proportions (especially regarding shoulder width, hip width, and center of mass), leading to shorter cleanup times in post-production.
Workflow is further simplified with the experimental ‘Auto Sensor Mapping’ feature for the Awinda system, allowing for faster setup by automatically recognizing and mapping sensor placement without requiring precise manual positioning. Romero stated that this update reinforces Xsens’ commitment to providing users with freedom in motion data creation without sacrificing quality.
The user experience has also been updated with a redesigned interface based on industry feedback, making navigation simpler and key tools more accessible for increased efficiency. The addition of a dark mode enhances user comfort during extended studio sessions, and colored backgrounds are available for easy chroma keying or aesthetic preference.
Ultimately, Xsens Animate 2025 aims to empower creative professionals by providing a more efficient and accurate motion capture solution that delivers high-fidelity movement data with minimal cleanup, contributing to faster project turnarounds.
A related video demonstrates the software’s capabilities in capturing realistic human movement across various activities, highlighting its ability to produce fluid animations.