Apple announced Tuesday that souped-up versions of iLife and iWork apps will now come free with any Mac computers or iOS7 devices.
During its unveiling event on Tuesday in San Francisco, the tech giant called this the biggest update to iWork ever, though users might not immediately notice the changes.
The most evident upgrade is a feature that allows iWork to sync up with iCloud - now, consumers can begin an iWork project on one device and use another Apple gadget to finish it up. Multiple users can check out documents shared on iCloud, in addition to a real-time editing option. Files augmented through iCloud's website operate in beta and work on Safari, Chrome and Internet Explorer, tech blog C Net reported.
Apple also revamped its Pages, Numbers and Keynote applications, which facilitate word processing, spreadsheets and presentations, respectively. Each app was redesigned and given new layouts that Apple officials said will seamlessly work on both desktop computers and mobile devices. Files can be opened and saved in Microsoft Office formats.
iLife and iPhoto - picture editing and organizing applications - were given a new look on Mac and iOs, a sleeker black and gray layout to replace what once was silver. iPhoto also comes with a new program called Print Products, which allows users to arrange pictures they want to use for calendars, greeting cards and photo books. Once the design's been sent to Apple, the company will print the piece and mail it.
Apple's iMovie application, which allows any amateur videographer to become a venerable Scorsese, now lets consumers share movies directly to various social media platforms. Video captured on the iPhone 5S can be viewed in slow motion, and 120 frames-per-second videos can be edited.
Music production application GarageBand also received an upgrade - users can now make 16 tracks instead of the previous eight. A new feature called Drummer allows aspiring musicians to add backup drummers who come equipped with names and personalities. More back-up instruments are available for purchase on an upgraded GarageBand application.
