Apple Supercharges Final Cut Pro & Logic Pro for iPad With New Features & AI

Apple has announced significant updates to its professional software suite, enhancing the capabilities of Logic Pro and Final Cut Pro to align with the new iPad Pro models released yesterday. Starting May 13th, Logic Pro will be available on both the iPad and Mac, with an update to Final Cut Pro set to follow later this spring. These updates will be available at no extra cost for current users across macOS and iPadOS platforms.

Final Cut Pro Embraces External Projects and Live Multicam

For filmmakers and video editors who use the iPad for their projects, Final Cut Pro introduces a much-requested feature: support for external projects. This allows users to create and manage projects on external storage devices, eliminating the need to use the iPad's internal storage. This is especially useful for handling large video files, now further expanded by the app's ability to process four camera shots simultaneously.

Another notable feature is Live Multicam, enabling the recording and monitoring of up to four devices at once. This is complemented by the launch of the Final Cut Camera app for iPhone and iPad, offering advanced control over camera settings such as exposure, focus, and ISO. While the app is free and designed for all users, it is particularly beneficial for those utilizing the Live Multicam feature.

Logic Pro Expands with AI Features

Logic Pro is also getting a significant update with the addition of AI-generated bass and keyboard instruments, enhancing the app's automated drummer feature. Apple introduces a new Stem Splitter function, powered by AI, to divide recordings into four components: drums, bass, vocals, and other instruments. Another new feature, ChromaGlow, uses machine learning to provide a reverb effect, offering five saturation styles aimed at delivering a realistic audio experience.

Both ChromaGlow and Stem Splitter will be supported on the Mac version of Logic Pro. However, they will only work on Macs equipped with Apple's own silicon, highlighting the company's push towards its proprietary chips. The iPad and Mac versions of Logic Pro are compatible with devices running at least iPadOS 17.4 or macOS Ventura 13.5, respectively. For optimal performance of certain features like Session Players and ChromaGlow on the iPad versions, Apple recommends using its M-series chips.

Subscription Models and Pricing

Apple introduced a subscription model for the iPad versions of Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro last year, priced at $4.99 per month or $49 per year. This contrasts with the one-time purchase fee of $299.99 for Final Cut Pro and $199.99 for Logic Pro on the Mac. The subscription model offers a more accessible price point and has been a key factor in attracting creative professionals to the iPad platform.