The Professional version of Acrobat launches and creates PDFs more quickly and has enhanced PDF/X and JDF capabilities. It also includes, for the first time, the ability to include virtually anyone in an electronic review of PDFs through commenting tools in Reader 7.0, the latest edition of its downloadable free client software.

The new function will allow users and clients to share files for commenting, proofing, marking-up page layouts and fixing output errors during production. The reviewable files can also include CAD content for the first time, as well as the usual images, spreadsheets and presentations.

Both Professional and Standard products, which will be made available at the end of the year, also have higher levels of integration with LiveCycle, Adobe's document services software for producing complicated PDF- and XML-based forms.

The firm has also announced that Acrobat 7.0 will be included in the latest edition of the software giant's Creative Suite, version 1.3, at the end of the year. The print and web publishing package also includes Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and GoLive products.

Adobe Acrobat 7.0 Professional will cost 395, with software upgrades available for 135.  Creative Suite Premium 1.3 upgrades for Photoshop users will be 565, with the full version costing 949.

Story by Darryl Danielli