For users who use professional image processing software, whether the software can fully utilize the latest hardware performance directly determines work efficiency and the creative experience.
Underlying Reconstruction and Performance Leap
The underlying architecture of the well-known software Pro 2.0 has been completely rebuilt, which is the core change. It abandons the general graphical interface that may have been used originally, but is rewritten based on Apple's Metal technology. This change directly targets Apple’s self-developed M1 series chips. On Mac computers equipped with the M1 chip, the software can directly call the 16-core neural computing unit integrated in the chip to perform machine learning tasks. Official data shows that when performing heavy calculations such as ML super-resolution amplification, the speed can be increased by up to 15 times, which greatly shortens the time users wait for rendering.
This update is not just for new hardware users. The development team claims that the new version is also compatible with older Mac computers using Intel processors. This means that whether users are using the latest MacBook Pro or the old iMac launched a few years ago, they can upgrade to version 2.0 to obtain unified software functions and interface experience, which protects the software investment of old users.
Intelligent photo editing function innovation
This new version of the software has introduced more artificial intelligence assistance in terms of specific functions. For example, when users want to remove unwanted objects or passers-by in photos, the software can use algorithms to sensitively identify surrounding pixels and automatically fill in the erased areas, making the repair results more natural and seamless. The color replacement function has also become more precise. Users can easily change the color of specific objects in the picture without affecting other areas.
The white balance adjustment in basic operations has also been upgraded intelligently. The software can analyze the image content, automatically determine possible color cast problems, and provide correction suggestions with one click. This is especially useful for photographers who need to process large amounts of photos quickly, significantly improving the efficiency and consistency of batch retouching.
Professional format support extension
For professional photographers, the ability to parse camera RAW format files is extremely critical. Pro 2.0 claims to support more than 600 camera RAW file models, including the latest models of most mainstream and professional camera brands on the market. This shows that photographers can directly import raw files for non-destructive editing, leaving maximum space for post-processing.
Not just in terms of photo processing, the new version has enhanced support for vector graphics and adds creation and editing functions for SVG format cliparts. In this way, designers can complete part of the workflow from fine photo retouching to graphic element planning in the same software, reducing the complexity of switching between different software.
Apple ecological synergy deepens
Towards the end of 2020, Apple launched its self-developed M1 chip, which has an outstanding energy efficiency ratio and an integrated neural network engine. This provides a new optimization direction for many professional software. Software like Pro can adapt quickly, showing that developers are closely following the evolution route of Apple hardware, and this further consolidates Apple computers’ original advantageous position in creative professional fields such as photography and design.
When users use Macs equipped with M1 or subsequent Apple-developed chips, they can get a complete performance-optimized experience that extends from the operating system to the professional application level. This deep integration of software and hardware enables the Apple ecosystem to build a smoother and more efficient working environment than ever before when faced with high-load professional tasks.
Practical impact on workflow
In actual work scenarios, improved performance means shorter export times and smoother real-time preview. For example, when working on a compositing project involving multiple layers and high-resolution images, the rendering waiting time after each adjustment is compressed, making it less likely that the creator's train of thought will be interrupted. This is extremely valuable for creative work that requires constant experimentation and revision.
The addition of intelligent functions has lowered the technical threshold for some operations with a certain degree of complexity. Some effects that could only be achieved with precise manual operations in the past can now be quickly achieved with the help of intelligent tools, allowing users to focus more on creative decision-making rather than execution skills.
Potential directions for future optimization
Although version 2.0 has brought significant improvements, users' expectations for professional software are endless. Apple chips continue to iterate, and more powerful M2, M3 and chips with newer architectures are released one after another. Whether the software can continue to tap the potential of the hardware has become the next eye-catcher. For example, whether similar AI acceleration functions can be added to video editing in the future.
The integration of the software ecosystem is also a potential direction. Currently, there are still barriers to file exchange and process connection between professional software. If Pro can further optimize its ability to work together with other mainstream creative software (such as the Adobe series) on the basis of supporting Apple chips, it will bring greater value to users.
For photographers and designers, what is the situation in terms of what aspects of professional software are expected to achieve the next breakthrough? Is it better to have stronger artificial intelligence capabilities as the first breakthrough, or to have closer cross-platform collaboration as the second breakthrough, or to have other functions as the third breakthrough? Everyone is welcome to share your opinions in the comment area.
