Monday, January 05, 2009, 06:45 pm

Google releases Picasa for Mac

By Aidan Malley

After limiting Picasa to Windows and Linux machines, Google on Monday launched a test version of the photo management software for Macs.

The public beta of Picasa 3 is said by the search engine giant to contain virtually the same features as on other operating systems.

Often considered a direct competitor to iPhoto, the suite lets users manage photos and either manually upload or sync them to Picasa Web Albums. It's also possible to share photos through posts on Blogger sites or to create slideshow movies.

Minor, non-destructive direct image editing is also possible, Google says.

The official release confirms recent leaks from sources speaking with AppleInsider but isn't accompanied by any additional information, including any tentative schedule for a final release.

Picasa requires any Intel-based Mac using Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger or higher.