Aputure Sidus Link Pro Beta v1.3 Update Released

Lighting News

by Dave KratzFebruary 6^th, 2025

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Aputure has released Sidus Link Pro beta v1.3, introducing a range of new features and improvements aimed at giving users more control over their lighting setups. Designed exclusively for the iPad, Sidus Link Pro expands on the functionality of the original Sidus Link app by offering advanced tools for managing DMX-controlled and wireless Bluetooth fixtures. The update, now available on the App Store, focuses on enhancing efficiency and precision for lighting professionals.

Aputure has been developing the Sidus Link app for years. We first covered a major update in 2020, and with the release of Sidus Link Pro beta v1.3, the company continues to enhance control and functionality for filmmakers.

For someone like me, who often works as a solo shooter, apps like Sidus Link have made a huge difference. When there isn’t room in the budget for additional crew, being able to adjust my lights remotely from behind the camera saves time and effort. With Sidus Link Pro, Aputure now offers even more advanced control options tailored for larger, more complex lighting setups. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new.

Key updates in version 1.3

Undo/Redo functionality: Lighting on set can shift rapidly, and making precise adjustments without mistakes is a challenge. Sidus Link Pro’s new Undo/Redo tool allows users to step backward or forward through recent changes to any light or group of lights. This includes restoring settings after clearing a stage or adjusting parameters, making the feature particularly valuable when experimenting with different lighting scenarios.

On/Off switches: Sidus Link Pro now lets users toggle any fixture on or off with a simple switch. Previously, users would need to reduce a light’s intensity to zero to achieve the same effect. The new toggle saves time when a specific light needs to be cut quickly, improving response time on set.

Expanded CCT, RGB, and HSIC+ Control: The update enhances control over both color and white light, with more precise adjustments to CCT (Correlated Color Temperature), RGB, and HSIC+ (Hue, Saturation, Intensity, CCT). This allows for smoother color transitions and more accurate matching of light to ambient or scene-specific conditions. This feature is ideal for productions that require consistent color balance across multiple lights and camera setups.

Expanded DMX parameter support: The update introduces several new DMX channels, giving users greater flexibility and control over their lighting setups. These include the Variable Channel, which offers dynamic adjustment options for supported lights; the Fan Channel, allowing users to control fan speed on fixtures with active cooling; the Strobe Channel, which enables strobe functionality for creative lighting effects; and the DMX Control Channel, expanding management options for DMX protocols and configurations.

In addition to these new channels, Sidus Link Pro now supports up to four universes through sACN or Art-Net multicast. This expanded support enhances compatibility with both Aputure’s fixtures and third-party DMX-controlled lights, providing robust control for large-scale setups.

Aputure Sidus Link Pro Beta v1.3 – other features

Sidus Link Pro also introduces several additional tools to optimize on-set workflows:

Instant DMX Cue-Based Control: The cue stack interface enables users to trigger multiple lighting cues in real-time, independently or simultaneously. This feature is especially useful for productions with tightly choreographed lighting sequences.

Improved User Interface: Sidus Link Pro’s graphical interface is designed for quick, easy access to key controls. Auto Set Up and Fixture Control features allow users to quickly add lights and adjust channel values without navigating through deep menus. The app emphasizes minimal screen taps, making it easier to stay focused on the shoot.

Growing DMX Profile Library: Users can select profiles from a growing database of DMX-compatible fixtures, including both Aputure models and a variety of third-party lights. This reduces setup time by allowing for faster integration of different fixtures into a single lighting network.

Cloud Service for Data Management: Sidus Link Pro now offers a cloud service that allows users to save and share projects, scene presets, and fixture configurations. This data can be transferred to collaborators via AirDrop, iCloud, or QR code. This feature improves collaboration across multi-location shoots and helps ensure consistency in lighting setups.

Designed for professional use

Sidus Link Pro provides control over both Bluetooth and wireless DMX communication, allowing users to manage hundreds of fixtures across different manufacturers. This makes it well-suited for larger productions, studio environments, and even live event setups. Unlike traditional DMX interfaces that rely on clunky hardware and command-line inputs, Sidus Link Pro provides a modern, touch-based alternative that supports real-time control and rapid adjustments.

Learn more and download

For a complete list of updates, including enhancements and bug fixes, you can visit Aputure’s official release notes for Sidus Link Pro v1.3.

Aputure has created a detailed tutorial video that walks users through the new features and controls in Sidus Link Pro. The beta version 1.3 is available for download now on the App Store.

What are your thoughts on these new updates? Have you tried the beta yet? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments below!