Changes 'dramatic and ambitious'

Apple is on the verge of finishing the next version of its high-end video editing tool, Final Cut Pro, sources say. A small number of editors are said to have traveled to the Apple campus recently in order to preview the new software and provide professional feedback. While some work remains to be done, the program is close to completion, the sources indicate.

Upgrades are described as "dramatic and ambitious." The interface has been completely redesigned, one of the sources explains, and some of the core architecture altered. Although the nature of the architectural changes is unmentioned, the software will likely switch to a 64-bit codebase, finally taking advantage of Snow Leopard and the multi-core processors that have long been standard in Macs.

The program is claimed to be shipping sometime this spring, possibly in parallel with the annual NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) conference. Apple is believed to have wanted a new Final Cut out in 2010, but various delays may have taken their toll. CEO Steve Jobs has promised a release date early this year.

by MacNN Staff