Windows 8 was the first major operating system with native support for 3D printing. _Microsoft is even selling 3D printers within retail Microsoft Stores, did partnership with_MakerBot, and built a 3D Builder app. _Microsoft has seen a good response from 3D printer_manufacturers supporting Windows 8. _For example, Beijing TierTime announced Windows plug-and-pay drivers for their consumer 3D Printers at CES and Autodesk delivered Meshmixer, an easy to use consumer application, with a 3D File->Print experience. Microsoft has made a number of announcements regarding 3D printing at the Build conference. 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF) published The 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF) is available for download on MSDN (http://aka.ms/3dquickstart). 3MF is a file format that makes it possible to File->Print from an app to any supported 3D Printer on Windows. It is a file format specifically tailored for 3D Printing and Windows. 3MF supports colors, textures, scale, a print ticket containing recommended print options, and many other improvements. Printrbot plug-and-play Microsoft is delivering a 3D plug and play print driver for Printrbot’s new...

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