Creality has released a firmware update to V1.3.2.20 for its K1 and K1 Max 3D printers with new features, optimizations, and bug fixes that may alleviate some of the frustrations we’ve experienced with the K1’s user interface.
Center stage are some new features that bolster device management. The addition of a root account and password for root access opens the system up to users who prefer full access to their printer’s file system. Creality directs users who wish to root to a GitHub page (K1 Series Annex) with options for either Fluidd or Mainsail installation. Though, notably, the “K1 Series root guide” PDF instructs users to install Fluidd.
Meanwhile, a device name has been added to the printer’s “About” page, combining the printer model and its MAC address – which Creality says will be “useful for device management with Creality Print”. Continuing on the new features front, users can now roll back firmware and connect to hidden and public networks.
One new feature stands out here: the newly added ability to skip partial failures in batch printing via a function in the web interface. This, along with several bug fixes – one targeting renaming G-code files, for example – seem to be the first steps in the right direction towards improving the K1’s web interface, which we found largely feature-less and lacking in customization during our initial review of the Creality K1.
While this firmware update is by no means a full-on overhaul, there does seem to be some quality attention paid to it. Perhaps this is a sign of good things to come.
With the release, Creality has also implemented optimizations to the K1 Max’s leveling sensors, camera, and AI that work to improve the machine’s first-layer results, time-lapse video capabilities, spaghetti detection, foreign object detection, and more.
Additionally, Creaity has added some popular models of a scraper tool and side spool holder to the K1 Max, but you can just find the files on Thingiverse and Printables, respectively.
In typical firmware update fashion, all new additions are too numerous to list here but, should you want the details, Creality’s blog post has you covered.
Editor's Note: This article was first published with the release of Creality's K1 & K1 Max V1.3.2.8 firmware on October 19. After receiving issue reports, Creality pulled the update before releasing it again as V1.3.2.20 on November 21. Though the original update's blog post was removed from Creality's website, curious readers can still find it on the Internet Archive.
You’ve read that; now read these:
License: The text of "Creality K1 Firmware Update Adds Root Access, Improves Interface" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.