New plugin SmartMenu brings commands closer to the cursor in Rhino 8

Summary

The SmartMenu plugin, developed by CAD Projects Australia, adds a middle-click, cursor-centered command menu and a context-aware HUD (head-up display) to Rhino 8. The goal is to reduce the constant back-and-forth between toolbars, the command line, and the viewport.

Why it matters

Rhino's command set is deep; however, the default interface forces users to move away from the model to access tools. This situation fragments the workflow, especially as custom macros accumulate. A menu that is pinned to the cursor, color-coded, and includes task-based presets can significantly reduce mouse movement for architects, manufacturers, and designers who work with Rhino all day. This also signals that McNeel continues to invest in a plugin ecosystem that enhances the usability of Rhino 8 beyond its core version.

Highlights

• The middle click opens a compact, color-coded command menu containing local commands and custom macros. Layouts are fully customizable and portable across different machines.
• The context-aware HUD displays the options of the active command directly in the viewport. This reduces the need to read the command line.
• Currently available only for Windows. The article lacks pricing information, independent comparisons, and a comparison with existing toolbar or command palette workflows.

Critical take

This text reads like a direct vendor press release from McNeel's own blog. There are no third-party tests, performance data, or pricing information. Additionally, the plugin has not been compared with community tools such as Rhino's existing command line, CUI, or Rhino.Inside plugins. Until independent users provide feedback, the claim of a 'faster workflow' remains unverified marketing copy.