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Apple updates GarageBand for Mac with MP3 export option, improved accessibility

Apple's music creation tool for Mac, GarageBand, was given a minor update on Thursday which reintroduces the ability to export songs in the MP3 file format, while also offering new drum sounds and enhanced accessibility.

GarageBand version 10.0.2 is now available for download on the Mac App Store. In addition to adding the option to export in MP3 format, it is also said to improve stability and address what Apple has characterized as "minor issues."

The free update also includes three new virtual "Drummers" and accompanying drum kits for the genres of rock, songwriter, and R&B. These new additions will be available to those who have purchased or choose to buy the complete set of GarageBand sounds, loops and drummers via a one-time in-app purchase.

GarageBand is one of three options in Apple's consumer-oriented iLife suite, being joined by iPhoto and iMovie. All three applications come free with the purchase of a new Mac.

The last update to GarageBand arrived in November, bringing minor tweaks and performance enhancements to Apple's casual music creation tool. Version 10 of GarageBand was released on the same day as Apple's latest Mac operating system, OS X Mavericks, last October, alongside revamped version of iMovie and iPhoto.



11 Comments

tallest skil 14 Years · 43086 comments

export in MP3 format

 

It… didn’t have that before?

 

Huh, guess it didn’t. Export to AAC. And that’s better anyway… 

gwmac 17 Years · 1800 comments

I would agree that AAC is better but for file compatibility with other people it is good to have MP3 as an option.

SpamSandwich 19 Years · 32917 comments

Quote:
Originally Posted by gwmac 

I would agree that AAC is better but for file compatibility with other people it is good to have MP3 as an option.

 

Yes. It would be a good idea to have as many audio file export options as possible. This is a good update.

 

Something I really wish Apple would offer would be "smart percussion" accompaniment options. People who play Latin music or anything other than Rock or Electronic music are hurting for options.

sudonym 10 Years · 233 comments

Quote:
Originally Posted by gwmac 

I would agree that AAC is better but for file compatibility with other people it is good to have MP3 as an option.

Couldn't the same be said for any legacy file, format or aspect of computing?  When something better comes along, Apple usually gets rid of the legacy stuff.

bonobob 13 Years · 395 comments

Quote:
Originally Posted by gwmac 

I would agree that AAC is better but for file compatibility with other people it is good to have MP3 as an option.

Even cheap, back-level Android phones do AAC.  But I do agree that the option should be available.