Product updates: October 2024

Posted: 08/10/2024

Blackbird now supports vector graphic handling through integrated SVG file support enabling superior precision, quality and output. This latest release includes incremental updates to a number of components of the Blackbird platform and technology including support for vector graphic handling through integrated SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) file support.

Vector graphics offer a superior level of control, precision, and quality ensuring that the output is the highest quality possible. Since vector files only store mathematical data instead of pixel information, they are lightweight meaning faster rendering times and easier manipulation, ideal for complex video projects. Furthermore, native handling of this within Blackbird’s core technology provides the basis for other future capabilities such as text management using vector graphic rendering.

The latest upgrade to the Blackbird platform is due to be released on 15th October 2024.

This update will be made available during a maintenance window of 11:00-16:00 BST (6:00-11:00 EST) on the day.

Also as a reminder, in September we released other improvements and feature updates which are noted here https://www.blackbird.video/updates/ 

SVG File Management

Users can now upload SVG files using the Blackbird web upload tool which is accessible from the Blackbird home page into any given account the user has access to.

These are stored and handled natively in the platform for editing. Current support covers vector objects and embedded images within vector objects. Future support for text handling will be provided in later phases.

The Blackbird editor and underlying technologies now handle native SVG rendering for high quality editing operations and rendering flows.

Vector graphics with text at present can be supported by performing vector export from the creation tool of choice (i.e. Figma, Adobe Creative Suite).

Security and Compliance work

From November onwards, we will be requiring Edge operating system updates to Debian 11 (Bullseye) to be rolled out for ongoing security and compliance purposes.