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As reported by CNET and Macworld, Apple has released a major update to its Final Cut Pro X software, making a number of improvements and addressing some of the strong criticism that has been levied against the revamped video production software.

One of the major features included in the update is support for XML, an addition that had been promised in an Apple FAQ posted to address the backlash against the software. CNET notes:

Among the biggest new feature to be added as part of a software update that will go out to users this morning is support for XML. This adds the option to both import and export projects and events in the XML format, meaning users can take XML formatted projects and work on them in Final Cut Pro X.

That addition addresses one of the potential sticking points for upgraders, who were left unable to open old Final Cut Pro projects in the newer version of the software. XML support brings that indirectly, as users can export Final Cut Pro 7 projects in XML, then import them into Final Cut Pro X via a third-party tool like CatDV from Square Box.

Other additions in Final Cut Pro X 10.0.1 include support for events and projects through Xsan, support for media stems, custom starting time codes, full-screen view for OS X Lion, and GPU-accelerated export. Apple has also released a new software development kit in order to help camera manufacturers create plug-ins to make their latest cameras compatible with Final Cut Pro X.

Media stems export in Final Cut Pro X 10.0.1

Apple is also promising another update to bring multi cam editing and broadcast video output support, but that update isn’t expected to launch until next year.

One other important change for Final Cut Pro X is the addition of a new 30-day free trial for the software, giving users the opportunity to test out the software before committing to a $299.99 purchase. Apple did issue refunds for unhappy early purchasers of Final Cut Pro X, and thus it appears that the company has launched the free trial in order to cut down on those refund requests.

Update: Apple has also released a 4.0.1 update for Compressor.

This update improves overall stability and performance including:

- Updates the bitrates in Cellular settings for HTTP Live Streaming.

- Fixes an issue with accessing QuickTime Export Component settings in Final Cut Pro X.

- Fixes an issue in which This Computer cluster does not appear when system is configured in Chinese.

- Resolves stability issues when launching Soundtrack Pro after Compressor 4 is installed.

Motion has also received an update to version 5.0.1.

This update improves overall stability and performance including:

- Adds support for dual displays.

- Fixes an issue with the import and playback of multichannel audio.

- Resolves a stability issue when navigating to keyframes at a negative time.

- Fixes an issue with incorrect text positioning when the Inspector is open.

- Provides for correct kerning between characters when applying adjustments.

- Resolves stability issues when entering an empty string in a title while in Draft Mode.

Finally, Apple has released an updated version of its ProApps QuickTime Codecs to support the new releases.