Apple Reveals If Final Cut Pro on Mac Gets New Features Subscription-Free
Apple has announced that it will maintain a one-time purchase option for Final Cut Pro on Mac, priced at $299.99. This move aims to cater to users who prefer not to subscribe. However, lingering questions remain about the future feature set for this version.
New Features for Final Cut Pro
During an interview with CineD, Bryan O’Neil Hughes, Apple’s marketing manager, revealed that both the one-time purchase and Apple Creator Studio versions of Final Cut Pro will receive new “intelligent” features. These include:
- Visual Search
- Transcript Search
- Beat Detection
Despite this confirmation, Hughes did not clarify whether the one-time purchase version would receive all upcoming features. Apple’s official stance indicates that while consumers can buy the app outright, certain premium content will only be accessible to subscribers of Apple Creator Studio.
Update Assurance
Those who own the one-time purchase version can expect ongoing updates. Hughes emphasized that both versions of Final Cut Pro will “continue to receive updates and work as expected.” However, the extent of future feature parity between the two versions remains uncertain.
Comparative Features Across Apple Apps
In contrast to Final Cut Pro, Apple has made a clearer promise regarding Logic Pro and MainStage, ensuring both subscription and one-time purchase users will have access to all features. Additionally, some apps included in the Creator Studio bundle, such as Pixelmator Pro, Keynote, Numbers, Pages, and Freeform, will introduce features only for subscribers.
For instance, the new Warp tool—which allows users to manipulate image layers—will be exclusive to Pixelmator Pro users with a Creator Studio subscription. Similarly, subscribers will enjoy a new Content Hub that offers high-quality photos and graphics alongside premium templates and themes across the Keynote, Pages, and Numbers apps.
Pricing and User Reactions
Apple Creator Studio is set to launch on Wednesday, January 28. Users can choose between a monthly subscription priced at $12.99 or an annual rate of $129.99. This introduction has sparked mixed reactions among users, especially those who prefer one-time purchases.
While the option for a one-time purchase eases some concerns, many users have expressed disappointment over the new subscription model. This nuanced landscape may challenge consumers as they navigate feature offerings and potential limitations.
