Apple has unleashed an updated iMovie video editor app for the iPhone and iPad, adding several new capabilities that take advantage of the latest features found in the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus and iPad Pro.
While the newest devices from Apple have yet to be able to capture 4K video content, iMovie version 2.2 gives users the ability to edit 4K videos straight on the iPhone or iPad itself. The editing interface is not professional-grade, and most video editors will want to do their work on a Mac instead. However, being able to do minor touch-ups on videos using the native Apple app is much better than having to download third-party apps or transferring the entire movie project to a desktop instead.
And even for video editors who have not made the jump to 4K, the updated iMovie still offers a considerable advantage over the old app, since it now allows users to edit 1080p movies at a buttery smooth 60 fps.
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which runs on Apple's newest, most powerful processor, the A9X, can also edit up to three 4K video streams at the same time, says Apple. The interface has also been tweaked for the iPad Pro, letting users take advantage of the larger screen real estate and the Smart Keyboard with a full-height Media Browser and a full-1080p preview window and keyboard shortcuts.
Additionally, Apple also included support for 3D Touch, its newly branded Force Touch technology introduced in the new devices, to iMovie, which now lets users create a new movie project straight from the home screen using pressure-sensitive Quick Action gestures that use 3D Touch.
Other notable features include the option to hide Media Browser to provide more screen space while editing and the ability to disable Ken Burns animation in a photo. A redesigned Project Details lets users watch movies before they are opened, while a new Video View lets them see more of their library while viewing videos and photos on the iPad.
Version 2.2 of iMovie is now available for download from the Apple App Store. Users who have purchased older versions of the app can automatically upgrade to the latest version, while new users will have to pay $4.99 to get the app.
