No 64-bit CS4 for Mac

Though anticipated, some Mac users may still be disappointed at the lack of 64-bit support in Adobe Creative Suite 4. The suite was unveiled late Monday -- and while Windows users will be able to take full advantage of their 64-bit machines, Mac users will have to wait at least until the release of CS5. Still, the company says Mac users will see performance increases in the new version, because of OpenGL support, enhanced interfaces and other improvements.

Adobe decided to pass on 64-bit code because of Apple's switch from Carbon to Cocoa development frameworks. Because Adobe's apps are written in Carbon, the switch to Cocoa would require a complete rewrite. But the addition of OpenGL support -- allowing CS4 apps to make use of graphics processors -- should provide significant performance boosts, according to Bruce Bowman, Product Manager of Adobe Premiere Pro. In an interview with MacNN, Bowman said he thinks the additional graphics horsepower will provide more noticeable benefit than 64-bit processing, by decreasing render times and upgrading 3D graphics. The time and expense of recoding all of the CS4 applications in Cocoa forced Adobe to delay 64-bit support for the Mac, Bowman said. He would not comment on when such support might be added.

The company synchronized the release of all CS4 products -- Windows and Mac versions -- on the same day to "ensure compatibility" between the platforms. In previous releases, the Windows version was released first, followed by a Mac version months later. Instead of including a host of splashy new features, this release of Creative Suite focuses on efficiency. Bowman says CS4 sports a more consistent user interface and improved workflow options, allowing content to be easily moved between applications.

by MacNN Staff