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Coffee Stain Studios is preparing to release the first major update for their factory building simulation game since its full 1.0 launch in September 2024. The upcoming 1.1 update promises to deliver numerous highly-requested features and quality-of-life improvements that will enhance the factory-building experience for players.Hypertube Network EnhancementsThe update introduces significant improvements to the hypertube transportation system. New three-way junctions will allow players to seamlessly switch between different paths while traveling through tubes with a simple key press. Additionally, branch connections are being added, which function similarly but with a more restrictive design that only permits access through the hypertube's longer segment. These branches are specifically designed to filter one tube into another, providing more flexible transportation network options for players managing large factory complexes.Key Features in Satisfactory Update 1.1:Hypertube enhancements: Three-way junctions and branchesVertical splitters and mergers for conveyorsPriority mergers with input importance settingsCurved build mode for belts and pipesStraight build mode extended to pipesPersonnel elevators with customizable stopsThroughput visual displays showing items per minuteComprehensive photo mode overhaulNew building components (beams, cables, vents, fans, garage doors, stackable shelves)Railway buffer stopsBlueprint auto-connection functionalityController supportVertical Splitters and Priority MergersOne of the most requested features is finally arriving with update 1.1: vertical splitters and mergers. These new components can be placed virtually anywhere on lifts to divide or combine conveyor belts as needed, allowing for more compact and efficient factory designs. The update also introduces priority mergers, which let players set importance levels for the three inputs, ensuring critical resources are processed first during overloads. This addition will significantly improve resource management capabilities for complex production lines.Enhanced Building ToolsBuilding tools are receiving substantial upgrades in the new update. While the straight build toggle has been a valuable feature for creating tidy conveyor belts, the functionality is now being extended to pipes as well. Complementing this is the new curved build mode, designed to create beautiful, smooth bends for both belts and pipes. These tools will give players more control over the aesthetic and functional aspects of their factories. Personnel elevators with customizable stops are also being added, providing another convenient transportation option for navigating multi-level structures.Visual Improvements and Photo ModeFor players who enjoy showcasing their creations, update 1.1 includes new throughput visual displays that count items passing along conveyor belts per minute, allowing for precise monitoring of factory efficiency. The update also brings a comprehensive overhaul to the photo mode with improved camera movement options, depth of field settings, filters, poses, and more. These enhancements will enable players to create stunning visual presentations of their factory builds.Additional Building Components and Quality-of-Life FeaturesThe update introduces numerous new building pieces including beams, cables, vents, fans, garage doors, and stackable shelves. Railway buffer stops will provide a clean way to automatically halt trains at the end of tracks. Other improvements include crash-site dismantling, conveyor wall holes, left-handed rail signals, improved sign sampling and drone pathing, and a cheat option to disable fuel requirements. Perhaps most exciting for complex factory designers is the ability to have blueprints automatically connect to existing structures.Controller Support and Future PlansController support is being added with the 1.1 update, though the developers noted that rain features won't return yet as they would require another Unreal Engine upgrade. Coffee Stain Studios is currently focused on polishing the 1.1 update while simultaneously working on the promised console version of Satisfactory.Release TimelineSatisfactory update 1.1 will launch on the experimental branch on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with the developers explicitly confirming this is not an April Fools' joke despite the date. The full release date for the stable branch has not yet been announced, but a more detailed deep dive into the new features is expected in the coming weeks.