Apple updates iLife '08 apps, iMovie gains new features

Apple Inc. on Wednesday afternoon posted to its website software updates for nearly all of its iLife '08 applications, the most significant of which adds a handful of more powerful editing features to much criticized iMovie 7.0 overhaul.

iLife Support 8.1

In order to install any of the individual application updates, users will first need to down iLife Support 8.1 [7MB], which supports system software components shared by all iLife '08 applications, improves overall stability, addresses a number of other minor issues, and supports general compatibility issues.

iMovie 7.1

iMovie 7.1 [44.6MB] addresses several areas including video and audio editing capabilities, and performance associated with opening and switching iMovie Events and Projects. In addition, the update also supports general compatibility issues, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues.

Among the new features delivered with the release is Multiple Clip Selection, which lets users select multiple clips in order to assign keywords, paste adjustments or reorganize clips in projects more quickly than before. Similarly, a Fine Tuning feature allows users to quickly refine the start or end frame for any clip without leaving the Project view.

iMovie 7.1 also introduces Still Frame Creation, which freezes the video action for creating a dramatic ending or applying the “Ken Burns” effect on any frame of a video clip.

Other features delivered in the release include Frame-by-Frame trimming, Audio Ducking level control, Manual Audio Fades, a duration settings for Transitions and Stills, an option to show the current playhead time, and other performance improvements that allow users to enjoy their video more quickly by switching between Events.

iPhoto 7.1

iPhoto 7.1 [59.3MB] addresses issues encountered when moving photos between Events, and adds new greeting card themes including holiday card designs. It also supports general compatibility issues, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues.

iDVD 7.0.1

iDVD 7.0.1 [18.6MB] improves overall stability, supports general compatibility issues, and addresses a number of other minor issues.

GarageBand 4.1

GarageBand 4.1 [46.1MB] addresses isolated graphic display issues, compatibility with 3rd party audio software, fixes minor problems with Magic GarageBand, and supports general compatibility issues.