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Final Cut Pro X update brings ProRes RAW format, improved closed captioning

Apple has introduced a new update coming April 9 to Final Cut Pro X, with version 10.4.1 introducing ProRes RAW, combining the visual and workflow benefits of RAW video with the performance of ProRes.

ProRes RAW is a new format from Apple that offers the quality and workflow advantages of RAW coupled with the performance of ProRes. With ProRes RAW, editors can import, edit and grade footage with RAW data from the camera sensor, making it ideal for HDR workflows.

Editors can also play full-quality 4K ProRes RAW files on 2016 and 2017 MacBook Pro and 2017 iMac systems in real time without rendering. ProRes RAW files are even smaller than ProRes 4444 files, allowing for better use of storage while providing a format for archiving.

Final Cut Pro editors can work natively with ProRes RAW and ProRes RAW HQ files created by Atomos recorders. The format will be available as a free update for owners of Atomos Sumo 19 and Shogun Inferno devices.

The format will also be available as part of a forthcoming upgrade package to users of the DJI Inspire 2 drone and Zenmuse X7 Super 35mm camera system designed for aerial cinematography.

Closed captioning

Also added to the update are improved closed captioning tools. Users can import closed caption files directly into their project or create them from scratch. Captions appear in the viewer during playback and can be attached to video or audio clips in the timeline.

A new captions inspector makes it simple to adjust caption text, color, alignment, and location. Captions can be created in multiple languages within the same timeline and easily share captioned videos to YouTube and Vimeo.

The 10.4 update to Final Cut Pro X was made available on Dec. 14, with new features including editing full-resolution 8K video, and extension of 360-degree VR video support to Motion and Compressor. The new version of Final Cut Pro X requires macOS 10.12.4.

Final Cut Pro 10.4.1 will be available on April 9 as a free update for existing users, and for $299.99 for new users on the Mac App Store. Motion 5.4.1 and Compressor 4.4.1 will also be available on April 9 as free updates for existing users, and for $49.99 each for new users on the Mac App Store.

Apple's educational bundle is also available containing Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor for $199.99