Apple has finally launched Final Cut Pro 11, marking the first major update to the video-editing software in 13 years. Since the release of Final Cut Pro X, fans and professionals alike have eagerly awaited this new iteration. Now, with its 25th anniversary recently celebrated, Apple is reintroducing the software with powerful new features. Final Cut Pro 11 is available to download on the Mac App Store, free for current users and priced at $300 for new customers, with a 90-day trial option.
The standout feature of this release is its integration of artificial intelligence. With “Apple Intelligence” having already enhanced iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple is now using AI to elevate Final Cut Pro 11. At the forefront is the new Magnetic Mask tool, which lets editors isolate and crop people or objects without a green screen. This feature offers greater control over background settings, allowing for seamless customization, color adjustments, and video effects.
Another key AI-powered addition is Transcribe to Captions, which simplifies the process of adding captions to videos. Powered by an in-house language model, this tool enables easy transcription directly onto the Final Cut timeline, making captioning faster and more accurate.
The update also brings tools for working with Apple’s Spatial Video format, now compatible with the latest iPhones and Apple’s mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro. Users can edit, color correct, and adjust depth in titles, helping make VR content creation more accessible. While CEO Tim Cook acknowledged that the Vision Pro remains a niche product at its current price, the company is reportedly developing a more affordable version for broader use.
Beyond the headline features, Final Cut Pro 11 introduces Magnetic Timeline, which allows for easy clip rearrangement while keeping audio synchronized. The software is also optimized for Apple’s M-series chips, offering performance enhancements for smoother playback of multiple 4K and 8K video streams.
In addition to the Mac version, Apple is also updating Final Cut Pro for iPad to version 2.1, refining the touch-based interface, enhancing color and light controls, and streamlining workflow for tablet users. This version is also available as a free update for current users.
This release demonstrates Apple’s commitment to empowering content creators with cutting-edge AI tools that enhance efficiency, precision, and creative flexibility.
