New CONTACT Elements Release Transitions to Optimized Web Architecture

The latest CONTACT Elements release (2026.1) has moved away from the Windows client and fully transitioning to an optimized web architecture, according to CONTACT Software.

Thanks to a comprehensive re-architecture of its underlying technologies, the platform is more responsive and now requires only one-third of the system resources, the company said. These optimizations can accelerate processes in product development and manufacturing, reduce operating costs, and simultaneously enhance scalability.

The new release introduces enhancements for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). The alternative PDF viewer, integrated directly into CIM Database PLM, enables redlining, annotations, and digital signatures within the application. This accelerates document approvals and ensures legally compliant processes, according to the company press release.

Variant management has been extended to include requirements structures, thereby supporting the efficient handling of product families and customer-specific customizations. A new usage structure provides transparency regarding dependencies and deployment locations of components and documents.

The new solution Catalyst for ALM (Application Lifecycle Management) integrates software repositories into CIM Database, for instance with GitLab. This enables seamless tracking of hardware and software components throughout their entire lifecycle.

CONTACT Elements for IoT has been enhanced for manufacturing management and IoT applications. Tool management reduces costs through optimized tool life, the production order monitor improves delivery reliability, and the new “Service Planner” view boosts efficiency in service deployment planning.

The installation and removal of asset components have been made more intuitive with new installation positions. Component changes are automatically logged, ensuring complete traceability of all installed components within an asset.

The new release optimizes the user experience across the Elements platform with enhanced keyboard support and improved accessibility. File management also sees enhancements, including a new history interface, customizable file naming rules, and duplicate checks, all designed to streamline daily document handling.

The new release introduces an annual versioning scheme for all products. CONTACT Elements 2026.1 is now available for customers and partners to download.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.