Developer Altadyn announced the release of 3DXplorer V4, an update to its plug-in-less and browser-based web3D platform, which, among other additions, now allows visitors to create a "universal avatar" for multiple supported virtual worlds, 3D web sites, and casual games.

Using an integrated "avatar configurator," visitors can customize their avatar's sex, face, hair, clothes, accessories, and other details. The avatars support various animated actions, moods, and interactions with other avatars. Users can communicate through text chat and integrated Skype calling.

The updated platform also extends support for user-generated content by allowing developers to import 3D COLLADA data. Altadyn has included an API which enables custom development of 3D web applications including casual games, collaborative tools, CAD/PLM environments, online meetings, product configurators, eLearning, and others.