Resolve 21.1 updates Fusion's Macro Editor, adds graphics tools and changes advanced scripting availability. Here are the changes most relevant to Fusion creators.
What changes for building templates?
Blackmagic's 21.1 release notes list support for loading and saving multi-template DRFX files in the Macro Editor, better batch selection and grouping, and an Update Macro action that adds tools from the current node selection.
For a template author, the practical benefit is being able to organize several related templates and revise a macro's tool set more conveniently. When updating an existing package, check that its published controls, defaults and category still make sense in the Edit page. A macro that opens successfully in Fusion still needs a useful Inspector for the editor who will use it.
The Edit and Cut pages also gain Inspector presets and the ability to edit Fusion properties for multiple selected clips. That is worth exploring when a project contains many instances of the same title or graphic.
Which Fusion features are listed?
- New Krokodove-based shape and 3D tools, plus OpenPBR material shaders.
- Improved MultiText layer alignment.
- Frame, ease and scale controls in OgrafLoader, with animation actions for OGraf timeline clips.
- Adjustable low-pass and high-pass filters in Fairlight Animator.
- Hard Mix blending for Fusion tools and PSD imports.
- Pre-divide and post-multiply alpha handling in log conversion tools.
For motion graphics, the Macro Editor, text alignment and audio-animation changes are particularly relevant. For compositing, review the alpha-handling changes when moving images between color spaces. These are documented changes, rather than a claim that every existing composition will look different.
What happened to Python scripting in the Free edition?
Blackmagic explicitly says Python scripting has moved to DaVinci Resolve Studio in 21.1. Both editions' notes also state that advanced scripting now requires Studio. The Studio notes list built-in Python console support, removal of Python 2 support and a native MCP server for interacting with AI assistants.
This matters to external automation tools and integrations that rely on those APIs. It does not mean that ordinary Text+ keyframes or every Fusion preset suddenly needs Studio. Check how the particular tool works and read its current requirements.
For example, the Exprizo requirements specify Studio for Resolve 21.1 and later. Our Free versus Studio guide explains how this differs from installing a Fuse or a DRFX title.
What should I check before upgrading a working project?
- Read the release notes for your exact edition and operating system. The 21.1 macOS requirements include Apple Silicon and macOS 15 Sequoia or later.
- Back up the project library and export individual important projects before opening them in the new version. Keep the original media and any external dependencies available too.
- Open a copied project and check titles, custom Fuses, fonts, expressions and any external scripts it uses.
- Render a short representative section, including transparency and effects-heavy shots. A successful launch alone does not verify the final output.
Blackmagic distinguishes library compatibility from project compatibility: its notes say a library may remain accessible in Resolve 20.3.2, while individual projects created or opened in 21.1 will no longer open there.
Official sources and scope
- DaVinci Resolve 21.1 release notes
- DaVinci Resolve Studio 21.1 release notes
- Current Blackmagic downloads and release notes
This overview was prepared on 3 October 2026 from the official 21.1 notes dated 8 September 2026. It is a release-note guide, not a blanket certification of plugin compatibility. If you have a specific issue, reply with your exact Resolve build, edition, operating system and the tool involved.