Macromedia Inc has finally shipped version 7 of its Director Shockwave Internet Studio flagship authoring product. This version includes the Web Design Effects software from Intel Corp’s architecture labs, which will enable developers to include animations without downloading GIF files, according to the company. The processing is done on the user’s PC instead, which will require more processing power, and will presumably have the side effect of enabling Intel to sell more powerful processors. Director 7 is available now for $1,000 and previous Director users can upgrade for $500. The new Shockwave 7 player is now available as a free download from Macromedia’s web site.
