Macromedia software released

Graphics software maker Macromedia has released Director 8.5 Shockwave Studio and FreeHand 10. Director 8.5 allows developers to bring 3D content to the Web, CDs and DVDs. The Director 8.5 bundle includes a new version of the Shockwave Multiuser Server, Havok physics engine for 3D game behaviors, support for Macromedia Flash 5 and the ability to stream RealMedia content. It is available for both Mac and Windows. It costs $1,199, or $199 to $399 for upgrades.

FreeHand 10 offers features such as new drawing tools, templates, tight integration with Macromedia Flash 5, and the ability to publish to both print and the Web. FreeHand 10 is available now for Windows, with Mac OS versions, including Mac OS X, expected in May. FreeHand 10 costs $399, or $129 for upgrades. The Flash 5/FreeHand 10 Studio is priced at $499--$100 less than Macromedia will charge later. Upgrades cost $199.