Popcorn 4 adds support for Flash video, AVCHD
updated 12:35 am EDT, Tue October 13, 2009
Import/export Flash Videos, works with AVCHD/Lite
Roxio's Popcorn 4 video conversion software is available today, with support for Adobe Flash web video, AVCHD and AVCHD lite, and the ability to preview how a converted file will look before processing the entire file. Designed to allow capture and transfer from "virtually any video source," the software includes device profiles that allow users to convert video optimized for consumer devices and gaming consoles. Also new to this version is the ability to directly upload to YouTube.
Borrowing a feature from Roxio Toast, Popcorn can capture web video from YouTube and other sources and also includes a feature not found in Toast -- the ability to export to Flash video (FLV, FV4) with an included template and player controls for use on websites.
A new tabbed interface lets users choose between capturing and converting video. Besides AVCHD and Flash, the software supports MKV, QuickTime, AVI. MPEG-1/2/4, Tivo and EyeTV formats. Users can make copies, extract multiple clips or audio tracks from non-protected DVD's. Burning software is included that allows creation of custom DVD menus. Labeling tools support LightScribe and LabelFlash drives and media.
The included device profiles allow users to tailor their converted video to exactly the device they intend to use. The current list of profiles supports conversion to devices such as the iPod, iPhone, Palm, Apple TV, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PSP Go, Blackberry and others. TiVoToGo support allows users transfer shows to and from their TiVo DVRs.
Another new feature lets users schedule CPU-intensive video conversion to run when they are not using the machine. Conversion can also be paused and resumed at a more convenient time. Users can add bookmarks to navigate video files on the iPhone and iPod, and an overscan feature removes the ragged lines from the edges of video recordings.
Roxio Popcorn 4 requires Mac OS X 10.5 and above, including Mac OS X Snow Leopard. The software is available online now from Roxio for $50. Popcorn will be available at retailers early next month. Registered users of previous versions of Popcorn or Toast can upgrade for $30.
