This is a great improvement, and one that Adobe ought to implement across the suite. Now, holding down the shortcut key for a tool (such as B for Brush, or for that matter H for Hand) activates the tool until you release the key. Another improvement extends the handy feature of previous versions that let you instantly access the Hand tool by holding down the spacebar. This feature is long overdue, as most browsers have had this ability for ages. (Photoshop has always handled 25 percent and 50 percent well.) Instead you get a nice, smooth, bicubically rendered preview. For example, images viewed at some additional smaller sizes (33 and 66 percent) no longer have jaggies. Assuming that's the case (and it probably is, if your machine meets the CS4 minimum requirements), you'll experience the editor's revolutionary, ultramodern feel. To experience the full impact of the latest release, your computer must support OpenGL 2.0. Adobe says they're aiming for 64-bit Mac support with Photoshop CS5. The delay stems from development decisions at Apple, according to Adobe reps.

Unfortunately, Mac users are left out in the 32-bit-ter cold this time around.

The product can also run under 64-bit Windows Vista-a good thing, since the OS can give this memory-intensive application access to massive amounts of additional RAM. I tested both Photoshop versions in 32-bit Microsoft Windows Vista and in Macintosh OS X Leopard. But that's why there's Photoshop Elements, right? For graphics pros, Photoshop is the only game in town. But in addition, some major improvements targeted at photographers, designers, and animators make this a highly compelling upgrade, although these features augur an even more challenging learning experience. Everyone will enjoy the new modern, animated interface. Whether you're interested in the Standard version ($699 direct) or the even more powerful Extended release ($999), you'll find something in this upgrade to love. Adobe could probably get away with resting on the heaps of laurels the app has earned over the years, but as Photoshop CS4 shows, that's not what it's doing. The tent pole of Adobe's massive Creative Suite 4 is Photoshop, the legendary image-editing application known for its power and scope.

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