Pixelmator 1.6 overhauls performance, tools
updated 11:10 am EDT, Tue July 13, 2010
Image editor now in 64-bit
A new version of Pixelmator, 1.6, has been launched by the app's developer. The software separates itself from some other image editors by using GPU acceleration. New to the latest release however is 64-bit CPU support, which allows the program to not only use multi-core processors but tap into larger quantities of RAM.
The Pixelmator Team has also made some improvements to the app's graphics processing architecture, taking advantage of Snow Leopard. Combined the changes are said to significantly boost performance, for instance by cutting start times in half and increasing overall speed by about 40 percent. A new Import component should simplify grabbing images from cameras, scanners and other devices, including Apple handhelds.
Other interface changes are said to include the addition of Layer Groups, and better transform tools that are easier and more precise. New Automator actions include ones for trimming and watermarking, and Send To options now allow publishing to Flickr, Facebook and Picasa. Pixelmator 1.6 is $59 new, but a free upgrade. Snow Leopard is required.
