Presentation platform Prezi passes 12m users and rolls out funky 3D backgrounds and fade-in animations

We’re big fans of Prezi here at The Next Web. The last time we caught up with the funky presentation platform was back in May, when it announced ten million users and a PowerPoint import feature.

Just to recap, Prezi is a neat zooming presentation application that helps its users create visually captivating presentations. The company was founded in Budapest, Hungary in 2009 by Adam Somlai-Fischer, Peter Halacsy, and Peter Arvai.

Now, Prezi has launched a new feature that lets users create 3D background images to add visual depth to their presentations, in addition to a new fade-in animation that adds further style to the storyteller’s timeline. Text, graphics, or visual media objects can be revealed – on cue – to reinforce specific presentations points.

“To think big and tell inspiring stories you need to have space to develop and share your ideas,” says Prezi’s CEO, Peter Arvai. “Now, with a simple click you can create zooming presentations in 3D: a true space for your ideas, and a memorable journey for your audience.”

Here’s a sample presentation with the new 3D feature:

Designed by architect and visual artist Adam Somlai-Fischer, Prezi does a good job of bringing a user-friendly stylish alternative to the likes of PowerPoint to the masses. Prezi’s use of the Z-axis allows the presenter to use spatial relationships that help presenters convey meaning and context.

In related news, we’re told that Prezi has now passed the 12-million users mark, representing steep growth having hit 5m users only nine months ago, and ten million users back in May.

Prezi was launched in April 2009 from Budapest, leading to investments from TED Conferences and Sunstone Capital. The San Francisco office was established in November of that year.

Meanwhile, here’s Prezi’s promo presentation announcing the new features: