Ulead announces free HDV and MPEG-4 upgrades for VideoStudio 9 users

New support for high-definition video editing for Sony HandyCam Camcorder HDR-HC1 - the first consumer HDV 1080i camcorder - and for mobile & streaming video.

Northampton, Ulead Systems, Inc., a 16-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, announced that all registered full version users of VideoStudio 9, Ulead’s consumer video editing software, will be eligible to download free upgrade plug-ins to add HDV and MPEG-4 support to the application.

The two plug-ins offer support for the latest formats available to consumers.

HDV is a new, high-definition format established by Canon Inc., Sharp Corporation, Sony Corporation, and Victor Company of Japan Limited (JVC). It offers a new generation of video quality with 16:9 aspect ratio and higher resolution for greater detail and more vivid colors.

The HDV Plug-in for Ulead VideoStudio 9 is of special interest to users of Sony's HandyCam HDR-HC1, the first consumer HDV 1080i camcorder.

The HDV Plug-in provides Sony HDR-HC1 users with a cost-effective solution to capture, edit, and output high-resolution HDV 1080i video - enabling users to incorporate HDV fully in their video projects, from capture through output.

MPEG-4 is a flexible format rapidly gaining acceptance for applications ranging from DVD-quality playback to video delivered over the Internet and mobile devices.

The Ulead MPEG-4 Plug-in for VideoStudio 9 allows users to easily create video for high-quality playback, streaming over the net or display on mobile phones, PDAs or the Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP).

Terms and availability
Ulead HDV and MPEG-4 upgrades are free to all registered users of full version VideoStudio 9.

UK users can download the plug-ins from September 8 at:
http://www.ulead.co.uk.

The plug-ins will be available from Ulead's German and French sites on September 15.

About VideoStudio
VideoStudio 9 offers refined automated video editing tools for consumers who want to quickly and easily turn home videos into polished movies. The software's new three-step Movie Wizard provides just the right mix of theme-based intro and exit graphics, transitions, text effects and music to tell a story, without losing the intended message in confusing cuts and edits.

At the same time, the VideoStudio 9 full-featured Video Editor provides more adventurous users and video aficionados with sophisticated, yet easy-to-use video editing tools.

The main Video Editor includes new and enhanced effects and filters, as well as overlay and audio tools for more advanced editing techniques and control.

About Ulead Systems
Ulead Systems, Inc. is a leading developer of innovative video, imaging and DVD authoring software for desktop, server, mobile and Internet platforms.

As more people use digital technologies at home, school and the workplace, Ulead software empowers users of all levels with the tools to easily and affordably personalize, manage and share digital content.

Ulead is a principal member of the DVD Forum, participates in DVD Forum Working Groups and is a general member of the HD DVD promotion group.

Ulead is also a Contributor member of Blu-ray Disc Association and serves on the BDA TEG. For more information on the company, its products and services, please visit Ulead's web site at http://www.ulead.com.

Slightly tweaked for easier reading. Bob C