Nero 8 is currently scheduled to become available for online purchase and download and via retail outlets worldwide as of October 1 2007, but you don't have to wait that long. In fact, you can grab you own free trial of Nero 8 ultra Edition right here. Nero 8 comes complete with digital media editing, building, sharing, converting, ripping, burning and back-up capabilities. Nero also underlined the fact that the product was optimized for Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows Vista. In fact, although it has not been publicized, Nero 8 will feature the Certified for Windows Vista logo.

"Nero 8 has been optimized for use with the new Windows Vista operating system and offers a variety of features that complement Windows Vista including the Nero DiscCopy gadget, which lets users copy a disc with just one click in the Windows Vista sidebar. Nero 8 also provides a complete bundle of multimedia and backup and recovery features not found in Windows Vista alone," Nero revealed.

Nero 8 brings to the table a completely redesigned Nero StartSmart graphical user interface. And besides placing functions like burning and ripping at the center stage of the new UI, Nero 8 also comes with support for Blu-ray and HD DVD video formats. Additionally, Nero 8 will also act as a social networking tool, allowing users to upload content directly to YouTube and MySpace.

"When we released the first generation of our Nero suite, our goal was to help average PC users easily create and manage their digital lives," said Udo Eberlein, Chief Operating Officer, Nero AG. "With the launch of Nero 8, we are building on this vision, providing users with easy-to-use features for the creation, management, and protection of all their multimedia projects. Nero 8 users can simply do more in less time, whether they are converting audio files to MP3 format, editing photo slide shows and videos, or creating an entire home entertainment network with integrated streaming, recording, and playback options for their multimedia files."