Version 5.7.0 update is being reviewed by Apple and has the following major change.
In prior versions of FA 5 and FA X, Intel GPU rendering did not support the comprehensive Mega2D and Mega3D variation sets.
Now using Metal, GPU rendering with Intel GPUs can use both the Mega2D and Mega3D variation sets. Unfortunately OpenCL does not support them, this is a Metal only feature.
AMD and Apple Silicon GPUs never had this limitation. Intel CPUs did not have this limitation either.
Version 5.7.0 update is being reviewed by Apple and has the following major change.
The app no longer allows you to purchase a subscription to unlock the GPU rendering and Animation Sequencer features.
Previously purchased active subscriptions are still recognized and honored. Prior subscriptions will not automatically renew.
There are now 2 optional in-app purchase items (which never expire) :
1) GPU Rendering
2) Video Animation Sequencer
If you had previously purchased a FA 5 subscription and the subscribed periods’ total duration was greater or equal to 1 year (12 months), then the FA 5 app will unlock both the GPU Rendering and Video Animation Sequencer features.
Subscription periods, for which you had received a refund from Apple, will not be included in the duration count.
FA X still offers the Silver and Gold subscriptions to access premium features. FA X does not offer a Loyalty Reward for long term subscribers.
The free FA X base app has limited features and imposes a maximum image size limit of 1024 x 768 pixel area.
FA X + Silver subscription is functionally equivalent to the Fractal Architect 5 app.
Fractal Architect X + Gold subscription is functionally equivalent to Fractal Architect 5 + GPU and Sequencer in-app purchases.
If you want to avoid a subscription, consider purchasing Fractal Architect 5.