Avid end of support announcement: Digidesign Pro Tools software on PowerPC-based Macintosh Computers


September 10, 2009

The newly released Pro Tools 8.0.1 software will be the last version of Pro Tools to support PowerPC-based Macintosh computers. Future versions of Pro Tools software will no longer be compatible with PowerPC-based Macintosh machines. However, Pro Tools 8.0.1 will continue to be made available in its current form to Avid customers who are still using PowerPC Macs for the foreseeable future. Additionally, product and support documentation will continue to be maintained on the Pro Tools Support site at www.digidesign.com/support.

Q: Why has Avid chosen to discontinue developing further versions of Pro Tools software on PowerPC Macs?
Apple discontinued the Power Mac G5 — the last computer to feature a PowerPC processor — more than three years ago. Further, Apple's Snow Leopard operating system will also eliminate support for PowerPC. Avid believes this will further accelerate the retirement of G5 and earlier machines for audio work.

Q: Will Avid continue to provide CS bug fixes for 8.0.1 and earlier software releases?
A: The company will continue to monitor the performance of 8.0.1 after its release and may offer CS software updates if necessary.

Q: Will Avid continue to offer phone support for customers using PowerPC Macs?
A: Phone support will continue to be available to these customers for the foreseeable future. Avid Customer Support also offers additional Support Assurance services to enhance after-sales support. These services extend technical support for hardware and software products with one of two levels of enhanced telephone support and repair/replacement coverage. Click HERE for more details.

Q: What are Avid's plans for supporting Snow Leopard?
Apple began shipping the new Snow Leopard operating system on August 28 2009. Avid is working closely with Apple to deliver compatible, high-quality versions of Pro Tools as soon as possible. Please check back periodically in the News/Product News section of the website for updates on Avid's Snow Leopard support status.

Avid periodically ends support for older products on the Pro Tools platform. As a courtesy to our customers, Avid's policy is to announce the end of support for product(s) concurrent with the Pro Tools release just prior to the release where support for the product(s) will no longer be offered. Avid's intent is to give customers time to choose the appropriate upgrade for their retired product.
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