Apple Releases Final Cut Express 4 Video Editing Software

Apple has released Final Cut Express 4, a significant upgrade to its powerful video editing software based on Apple’s award-winning Final Cut Pro 6. Apple’s powerful moviemaking package now supports the latest AVCHD cameras, features an open format Timeline, provides iMovie ’08 compatibility, and offers sophisticated effects and filters.

A press release says the new Open Format Timeline in Final Cut Express 4 allows users to mix and match DV, HDV and AVCHD material, all in realtime using the same industry-leading editing and trimming tools found in Final Cut Pro. Supporting both 1080i and 720p HD resolutions, Final Cut Express 4 automatically performs the necessary scaling, cropping and frame rate adjustments.

Final Cut Express 4 makes it easy to import iMovie ‘08 projects and use advanced editing options like multiple layers of video and graphics, picture in picture effects and animated titles. It includes over 50 new FxPlug filters, including Soft Focus, Vignette and Light Rays, with hundreds more available from a rapidly expanding FxPlug developer community.

Now you can add dramatic animated text to your Final Cut Express project using LiveType, that features the exclusive LiveFont animated font technology and provides an extensive library of textures and effects.

Final Cut Express 4 is available for $199 through the Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. Owners of previous versions of Final Cut Express can upgrade to Final Cut Express 4 for just $99!