Apple has released a new software update for Mac owners and users of its iLife suite of applications – iMovie 8.0.5. The new version delivers compatibility enhancements with a series of devices, addresses a few bugs, and, most importantly, introduces a new, Apple-designed video format – iFrame.

On the Support section of its website, Apple reveals that iMovie 8.0.5 improves compatibility with a number of devices and fixes other minor issues, including: improved compatibility with camcorders using the iFrame video format; improved compatibility with importing video captured on the iPod nano; fixed problems with resizing the iMovie window during playback.

Although, this time around, Apple forgot to offer a link to the Support document talking about the iFrame Video format, AppleInsider has found that support article HT3905 says the new iFrame Video format "is designed by Apple to speed up importing and editing by keeping the content in its native recorded format while editing. Based on industry standard technologies such as H.264 and AAC audio, iFrame produces small file sizes and simplifies the process of working with Video recorded with your camera."

Apple encourages iMovie '09 users to update to version 8.0.5 or later for the best iFrame Video format performance, instructing them to do this by choosing Software Update from the Apple menu and then installing any iMovie '09 updates that are listed. Alternately, users can download the standalone installer package (available via the link below) and perform the update manually, as explained here.

AppleInsider comes with additional information regarding Apple’s move, saying that support for the new format was originally announced by Sanyo. The electronics maker has added iFrame recording to two of its new camcorders introduced this week – the HD2000A and FH1A.

Download iMovie 8.0.5 (Free)