KiCad 9.0.0 Released: New Features, Enhancements, and Fixes

The KiCad project proudly announces the release of KiCad 9.0.0, packed with exciting new features, major improvements, and crucial bug fixes. This version brings enhanced usability, improved design tools, and better library management to streamline PCB design workflows.

What's New in KiCad 9.0.0?

1. Improved PCB and Schematic Editors

• Bezier Curve Tool: Now available in both schematic and PCB editors, allowing for smoother, more precise designs.
• Selection Filtering: Enhanced object selection filtering for better control in schematic and symbol library editors.
• Custom ERC/DRC Warnings: Users can now define custom errors and warnings to streamline electrical and design rule checks.

2. Enhanced Library Management

• Expanded Component Library: Over 1,500 new symbols, 750 new footprints, and 132 new 3D models added.
• Multi-Channel Design Support: Easily duplicate PCB layout elements for repeated components in multi-channel designs.
• Component Classes: Group symbols and footprints with specific design rules for better consistency.

3. PCB Design Improvements

• Pad Stacks: Define different pad shapes for various layers to create more complex designs.
• Multiple Track Drag: Improved push-and-shove routing allows dragging multiple tracks at once.
• Creepage Design Rule Check (DRC): New constraints for electrical creepage clearances ensure safer designs.

4. Usability and UI Enhancements

• Mouse Scroll Wheel Actions: Improved scrolling interactions across all editors.
• Table Editing Support: Now available in schematic, symbol, and footprint editors.
• Reverse Mouse Wheel Zoom: Optional zoom control for user preference.

5. 3D and Exporting Enhancements

• Improved 3D Model Export: Support for XAO, STL, BREP, and PLY file formats.
• Include Silk Screen & Solder Mask in 3D Models: Enhances visualization for manufacturing.
• ODB++ Export Support: For better integration with fabrication tools.

What’s Next for KiCad?

With KiCad 9 now available, the team will focus on bug fixes and performance improvements for the 9.x series while working on new features for KiCad 10. Users are encouraged to provide feedback and report issues to help refine future updates.

Download & Learn More

Get the latest version from the KiCad Download Page. For a full list of changes, visit the KiCad GitLab Milestone Page.