Telestream (www.telestream.net), a provider of digital media tools and workflow solutions, has announced a major upgrade for its Wirecast live streaming production software. Version 5 adds enhanced encoding and playback options; a new, more efficient user interface (UI); high-quality screen capture; and more flexible input/output integrations for easier, high-quality live streaming.

Wiirecast 5 — which is Mac compatible — ships with an Output SDK [software development kit]. The SDK enables capture card manufacturers and other partners to develop program feed output integration with Wirecast.

Wirecast 5 will be released in the third quarter of the year and priced at US$495. Customers who currently own Wirecast can upgrade to Wirecast 5 Studio for $129 and to Wirecast Pro 5 for $295.