Features of Power Director Ultra 20
Under the Hood
Firstly, CyberLink’s video editing software now supports 4K video. This is great news as 4K is rapidly becoming the norm over standard HD, although some software already handles 8K. Even the latest consumer phones and cameras are embracing this resolution.
Another welcome addition is HEVC compatibility. This relatively new format (though in use for a few years now, even when we reviewed version 18) is the codec of choice for iPhones, so it's great that PowerDirector can handle these files without a hitch.
Alongside new templates, themes, and effect packs, many new features have been added to PowerDirector's toolkit. There are too many to list here, which is impressive in itself. Instead, we’ll highlight some of the best ones for video editors.
Layer Flipping
This new option, noticeable when launching the app for the first time, is likely appreciated by seasoned editors like us who have explored more video editing software than most. It’s worth mentioning.
Previously, PowerDirector ordered its layers in reverse of the 'usual' way. A clip on the bottom layer would block what’s above it. Most other editing tools work more like real life—imagine placing one piece of paper over another and blocking what’s underneath.
PowerDirector now offers the best of both worlds. You can switch the order in preferences. The PC version gives you the choice upon first launch. A big move by CyberLink, much appreciated. It’s the little things, you know.
Change your layer direction, choosing whether to block above or below others. (Image credit: Future)
Some of the most interesting new additions are powered by AI, with complex algorithms doing impressive work and making decisions based on past learning.
In PowerDirector, AI now assists with motion tracking. You can add text boxes or graphics that follow a selected object over time, with greater precision. The tool pairs with object detection to help you apply a mask around a person or object. You can then, for instance, remove it or its background.
Much of this AI magic extends to audio components, like enhancing speech to reduce background noise and improve spoken recording quality. Wind removal is a blessing if you’re forced to record someone outdoors in windy conditions.
But the feature that surprised us most seemed at first like a fancy gimmick.
It’s called AI Sky Replacement.
At first glance, it seems like a simple background remover, but there’s complex motion tracking involved too.
The results are impressive, with clouds in the sky moving as you’d expect with the shot's motion. It also comes with various adjustable parameters, so you can tweak the effect, making it look better than ever.
PowerDirector AI results are impressive, even in something gimmicky like the sky removal feature. (Image credit: Future)
Controls
This granular level of control is found throughout PowerDirector.
Take the particle designer, for example, where you can create and modify existing templates, with many adjustable parameters at your disposal.
The same goes for fully customizing animated titles (or using them as is, of course). There are shapes for you to use and modify, with handy parameters like auto-text and keyframe capabilities. There’s also an Atitle editor, where you can change font, color, and position.
You have control over numerous parameters across tools and the interface. (Image credit: Future)
Feature-Rich
And there’s still so much more to discuss. Clearly, the powers have gone from strength to strength over the past couple of years. Quickly, here’s a list of some of the most impressive new features:
On the audio editor side, you can now automatically lower background audio volume when someone starts speaking (audio ducking), and your background score can automatically adjust to fit the length of your footage (smart background music).
Animated previews and transitions themselves have been improved. (Image credit: Future)
It’s a great time if your recorded audio and video aren’t combined at the source. PowerDirector can sync them automatically for you—as long as your video comes with its audio, which it usually does.
You can create, upload, and export SRT files—for embedded subtitles—including font, color, and style support.
System Requirements for Power Director Ultra 20
- Microsoft Windows 10, 8/8.1, 7 (64-bit OS only)
- Intel Core™ i-series or AMD Phenom® II and above
- Standard Video: 128 MB VGA VRAM or higher
- 360-video: DirectX 11 compatible
- AI Plugin: 2GB VGA VRAM or higher
- 4GB memory required (6GB or above recommended)
- 7GB hard disk space
- Burning drive is required for disc burning purposes
- Windows compatible sound card is required
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