Unity 2018.1 is gearing up to be one of the most exciting Unity releases in a while. And if you download and install the beta, not only do you get early access to all the new features, like the Shader Graph and the Scripted Render Pipeline, you also get to have your say and make a real impact on the end product. Finally, the beta gives you a chance to test how your current project will fare on 2018.1.

You’ll get a closer look at our Shader Graph, a new visual shader tool. The Shader Graph is designed to work with the Scripted Render Pipeline, which is also included in the 2018.1b. Later in the cycle, we’ll add the C# job system, that we showcased at Unity last year. You can find more info about the new rendering capabilities in our “2018 and Graphics” blog.

Win Unity Gear

To spice things up a bit, we’re giving a Unity Gear set to 25 lucky testers. Each set includes a logo hoodie, a logo tee and a metal camp mug from the Unity Gear store.

Note that only original bug entries are eligible (in other words, entries that have not yet been reported at the time of submission and have been reproduced and acknowledged by us as a bug).

What to expect?

As with any beta program, you’ll have early access to features that are still under development. That means you’ll experience Unity as less stable than the final version. The beta test is currently expected to run until March 4, and several beta versions will be made available in that time.

How to join

It’s simple to get started and participate in the beta process. Simply head over to our beta testing section, read our guide and download the installer to get access to the 2018.1 beta.

We also encourage you to sign up for the optional beta tester email list below. Signing up will enable us to send you notifications when new versions are available, as well as tips on how to be an effective beta tester.

Please see this guide to being an effective beta tester to start off on the right foot.

The beta release is available for free to all Unity users, including Personal Edition users. In the release notes section, you’ll find a complete list of all the new features, improvements and bug fixes included in the release.

2018.1 Beta Sweepstakes Official Rules and Conditions

Sign up for our beta newsletter

We also encourage you to sign up for the optional beta tester email list below. Signing up will enable us to send you notifications when new versions are available, as well as tips on how to be an effective beta tester.