Avid has introduced Pro Tools Extensions, a new plug-in format designed to bring third-party tools and services directly into its digital audio workstation (DAW).

Introduced with Pro Tools 2026.11, the system supports workflows that can operate across multiple tracks or entire sessions, rather than being limited to individual tracks like conventional AAX plug-ins.

The new format is designed to support integrated sound libraries, workflow automation, collaboration and other specialized production tools. Extensions are accessible through a dedicated menu in Pro Tools and can remain available even when a session is not open.

The initial lineup includes integrations from Pro Sound Effects, Soundly, Forte and Pibox. Existing integrations with Splice and SoundFlow, originally introduced in 2025, are also being incorporated into the Extensions environment.

Avid has also introduced its own Pro Tools Stem Separator Extension, which uses AI to separate recordings into individual audio elements. The update also brings MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) support and several workflow improvements.

Features:

• Pro Tools Extensions introduce a new plug-in format supporting workflows that operate across multiple tracks or entire sessions.
• Extensions can provide integrated access to sound libraries, automation tools, collaboration services and other specialized production workflows.
• A dedicated Extensions menu provides access to installed tools and services directly within Pro Tools, including when no session is open.
• Initial third-party Extensions include Pro Sound Effects and Soundly for sound-effects libraries, Forte for track importing and organization, and Pibox for collaboration and feedback.
• Existing Splice and SoundFlow integrations are also available through the Extensions environment.
• The Pro Tools Stem Separator Extension uses AI processing to separate recordings into up to six elements: vocals, drums, bass, guitar, keys and other.
• Separated audio can be previewed and imported directly into a Pro Tools session as individual tracks.
• Stem separation processing takes place locally on the computer without uploading audio to cloud services.
• MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) support allows individual notes within a chord or performance to respond independently to pitch, pressure and timbral expression.
• MPE performances can be recorded, played back, edited and automated within Pro Tools, with dedicated expression lanes in the Edit window and MIDI Editor.
• Windows improvements include native High DPI support, dynamic display scaling, expanded dark-theme support and improved plug-in scaling.
• Playlist Clip Color Coding automatically assigns colors and take identifiers to alternate recordings, helping users organize and identify takes across multiple tracks.

Availability:

Pro Tools 2026.11 is available now for Pro Tools Artist, Studio and Ultimate subscribers, as well as perpetual-license holders with an active Upgrade Plan.